The Supreme Organizing Committee of the Saudi International Maritime Forum has announced the commencement of preparatory activities for the fourth edition of the Saudi International Maritime Forum. The Forum is scheduled to be held under the gracious patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Defense, under the supervision of the Ministry of Defense and organized by the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, in organizational cooperation with Startime Events. It will take place from 23 to 25 November 2026 at the Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Center, further consolidating its position as one of Saudi Arabia’s leading maritime conferences in 2026.
The launch of preparations comes at a time when the world is witnessing rapid changes in the maritime environment and growing threats targeting critical infrastructure extending across the seabed, including subsea cables and energy pipelines on which the global digital economy and international trade depend. Against this backdrop, the theme of the fourth edition has been set as: “The Future of Seabed Security & Maritime Supply Chains in a Critically Changing World.” It reflects Saudi Arabia’s strategic direction towards strengthening deep-sea maritime security, protecting digital infrastructure on the seabed, and supporting international efforts to safeguard vital maritime corridors.
Working under the direct supervision of the Oversight Committee of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, the Supreme Organizing Committee is implementing a comprehensive preparatory plan. This includes developing the Forum’s conference programme, coordinating the participation of government, military and international entities, receiving participation applications from global institutions specializing in maritime security and supply chains, and preparing the logistical and technical infrastructure required to ensure professional experience for participants. International entities from more than forty countries have also begun confirming their participation, reinforcing the Forum’s position as a global platform for dialogue and cooperation on maritime security issues.
The Saudi International Maritime Forum is one of the leading high-level international business events dedicated to maritime security. It brings together senior naval leaders, decision-makers, experts, and industrial and technology stakeholders to discuss the future of seabed security amid accelerating geopolitical and technological developments. The Forum is expected to feature specialized discussions on the protection of digital infrastructure on the seabed, maritime energy security, the resilience of global supply chains, maritime cybersecurity, and the role of unmanned systems and artificial intelligence in strengthening maritime security.
This event builds on the success of previous editions, which have established Saudi Arabia’s position as a key supporter of maritime security issues and priorities, and as a strategic partner in safeguarding vital maritime corridors and supporting the stability of global trade and energy. This is aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to strengthen maritime security and develop national capabilities in this vital field.
