27 winners honored in the fourth edition of the Local Content Award
The Local Content and Government Procurement Authority celebrated the awarding of prizes to 27 winners of the Local Content Award , held under the theme “Celebrating Your Contribution.” This exceptional ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Chairman of the Authority’s Board of Directors, Mr. Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, and in the presence of a distinguished group of dignitaries, representatives from government agencies and the private sector, and officials from various vital sectors across the Kingdom.
The historical roots and national motivation behind establishing the Local Content Award
The award's concept stems from the core objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes diversifying the economic base and reducing dependence on oil. Since its establishment, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority has been committed to developing effective policies to direct national purchasing power towards local products and services. This award is a strategic national initiative, designed to incentivize healthy competition and encourage all sectors, companies, and individuals to adopt best practices to maximize the benefits of local spending and develop industrial and service capabilities within the Kingdom.
The economic and developmental impact of boosting local spending
The significance of this event extends beyond its celebratory nature; its impact is far-reaching, yielding tangible strategic gains at both the local and regional levels. Locally, enhancing local content will create thousands of job opportunities for Saudi citizens, support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and increase the non-oil sector's contribution to the GDP. Regionally and internationally, this approach strengthens the Kingdom's position as an economic powerhouse with reliable and sustainable supply chains, thereby attracting further foreign investment seeking to capitalize on government incentives related to localization quotas and technology transfer.
Significant growth in performance indicators and agreements
During the ceremony, His Excellency Mr. Bandar Al-Khorayef revealed promising figures reflecting the success of the implemented policies. The percentage of local content in government procurement has increased from a baseline of 28% in 2018 to exceed 51% by the end of 2025. He also noted the signing of approximately 80 agreements for industry localization and knowledge transfer since the implementation of this approach, with investments exceeding SAR 18 billion. The current edition witnessed a significant increase in the number of applicants, exceeding 131% compared to the previous edition, confirming the growing awareness of the importance of localization.
Honoring government agencies and major companies
The fourth edition included 22 awards and 5 certificates of appreciation. In the category of highest-spending government entities, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority took first place, followed by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, and then the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. In the category of medium- and low-spending entities, the General Authority for Roads led the way, followed by the Ministry of Energy, and then the General Authority of Ports. Regarding state-owned companies, STC Group secured first place for prioritizing local content, with Airports Holding Company coming in second, and the National Water Company in third.
A prominent role for the private sector and small and medium enterprises
The private sector garnered 13 awards in the Excellence Track. In the large enterprises category, companies such as Advanced Systems and Solutions for Communications, Nasser Manea Al-Khalawi Contracting Company, Sawateer Protection Security Services Company, International Maritime Industries Company, and Saudi Energy Company stood out. In the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) category, companies including Encrypted Text for Cybersecurity, Sharq Driving School, and Saudi Technicians Engineering Consultants Company were recognized. Additionally, Faal Law Firm received a certificate of appreciation for its exceptional progress in Saudization rates.
Engaging the non-profit sector and individuals in the development process
In a move reflecting the award's comprehensive vision and qualitative development, new categories were introduced for the non-profit sector in recognition of its developmental role. The Nusuk Foundation for Hajj and Umrah and the Tawafuq Family Reform Association in Madinah were among the winners. The ceremony also acknowledged the role of individuals in raising awareness, honoring Hattan Tashkandi, Yara Al-Shehri, and Yousef Al-Mazeed for their outstanding awareness efforts. The event was sponsored by Seer Electric Vehicles and Asas Company, with KAPSARC participating as a partner, demonstrating the collaboration between various sectors of the Kingdom to support the national economy.
