Saudi-Italian relations: Promising prospects and trade worth 10 billion euros
The Italian Consul in Jeddah, Dr. Leonardo Costa, affirmed that Saudi-Italian relations are witnessing excellent levels of coordination and joint cooperation in various political, economic, and cultural fields. In an exclusive interview with Al-Youm newspaper, Costa explained that these historical ties are not limited to mutual interests, but extend to form a strong human and cultural bridge connecting the two friendly nations, paving the way for a deeper and more sustainable strategic partnership that fulfills the aspirations of both countries.
Historical roots underpin the bilateral partnership
Bilateral relations between Riyadh and Rome date back decades to constructive cooperation, with formal diplomatic ties established in the 1930s. Since then, both countries have been keen to enhance mutual understanding through the signing of numerous agreements and memoranda of understanding. On the cultural front, this institutional cooperation extends back to 1976 with the signing of the first cultural memorandum of understanding between the two sides. This was further strengthened and updated by a new and comprehensive agreement signed between the two countries' ministries of culture in 2023, reflecting a renewed commitment to developing and expanding this vital area.
Promising economic prospects and record trade volume
On the economic front, Dr. Leonardo Costa revealed that the volume of trade between the two countries reached approximately €10 billion, according to the latest data for 2025. Italy is a major and pivotal trading partner for the Kingdom in Europe, while Saudi Arabia is Italy's primary partner in the Middle East. This trade is characterized by clear economic integration; Italy imports petroleum products and derivatives from the Kingdom to meet its energy needs, while exporting machinery and industrial equipment, high-end fashion, various services, and advanced pharmaceutical products to the Saudi market.
This growing economic cooperation culminated in the convening of the first edition of the Saudi-Italian Economic Forum in the capital, Riyadh, last November, which witnessed broad participation exceeding one thousand participants from officials and businessmen, thus opening new horizons for mutual investments and joint projects.
The development of Saudi-Italian relations through education and culture
The cultural dimension is inseparable from the economic and diplomatic activity within the framework of Saudi-Italian relations . In this context, the Italian Consul expressed his pride in launching the first university program for teaching Italian in Jeddah, a pioneering educational step that allows Saudi students the opportunity to learn firsthand about Italy's rich culture and facilitates their direct interaction with Italian society, whether for study or tourism.
Costa also pointed to the existing cooperation in Al-Ula Governorate, which he described as an archaeological “jewel” in the Saudi cultural landscape, stressing the existence of memoranda of understanding aimed at strengthening joint work to protect and develop this World Heritage site, in support of Saudi Vision 2030 in showcasing its cultural and historical heritage to the world.
The impact of the strategic partnership on the regional and international arenas
Strengthening relations between the two economic powers (Saudi Arabia, an active member of the G20, and Italy, a prominent member of the G7) has a significant impact that extends beyond bilateral ties to the regional and international levels. This ongoing coordination contributes to the stability of global energy markets and facilitates vital supply chains between Europe and the Middle East. Furthermore, the convergence of cultural and economic visions enhances opportunities to address shared challenges such as climate change and digital transformation, making this partnership a model of international cooperation built on mutual respect and shared interests.
