Calendar of International Trade Programs and Events

Sector: Manufacturing/Advanced Manufacturing

Market Region: Middle East

Date: November 23, 2025 to November 28, 2025

The Government of Ontario is organizing a Smart Manufacturing Trade Mission to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

The Smart Manufacturing Trade Mission will offer programming for 5 to 10 Ontario SMEs interested in exploring the key export market or advancing their existing business development efforts in the region. The focus will be technologies that modernize factories and industrial plants, including IIoT, AI, automation, data collection and analytics, machine learning, robotics, cloud computing, edge computing, additive manufacturing, digital twins and cybersecurity. Smart manufacturing techniques at the factory level enhance operational efficiency, improve production and process quality, save energy, reduce costs and offer predictive maintenance.

As a hedge against dependence on the oil industry and tourism, GCC governments are embracing the manufacturing industry, a move predicted to lead to a more stable source of revenue generation, sustainable employment, and increased export potential. Initiatives like Make in the Emirates, the Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy, and Operation 300bn aim to position the UAE as a global industrial hub by 2031. However, Saudi Arabia is the major manufacturing hub in the Middle East, with ongoing investments of more than C$1.4 trillion driven by Saudi Vision 2030, a government program to diversify economically, socially and culturally.

The mission package will include:

• 1:1 export advice and consultation
• Pre-mission briefing offering sector/market updates and logistical information related to the mission
• Customized B2B meeting program, group meetings and site visits connecting Ontario companies with potential customers and partners
• Group visit to a major smart manufacturing trade show in Saudi Arabia (not to exhibit)
• Marketing and promotional support through an Ontario delegates’ directory
• Business program in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia

The company mission registration fee are to be confirmed. In addition, participating Ontario companies must cover the cost of their flights, accommodation, some local transportation and meals.

Mission application deadline: September 8, 2025

Register now