Under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Royal Saudi Naval Forces will organize the fourth Saudi International Maritime (SIM) Forum with the participation of a distinguished group of Naval Commanders, decision-makers, experts, and representatives of the industrial and technology sectors.
SIM 2026 will take place at the Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Center in Riyadh, and will run from Monday 23rd to Wednesday 25th November 2026.
Under the theme “The Future of Seabed Security & Maritime Supply Chains in a Critically Changing World,” and through its specialized sessions and activities, the Forum will address key issues, including shifts in the global strategic environment and their impact on maritime supply chain security, as well as threats to energy supply chains.
The Forum will also examine seabed security and the protection of subsea infrastructure, address security challenges in the maritime transport sector, and explore solutions and technologies that protect maritime systems and enhance their operational efficiency.
It will also highlight the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in strengthening maritime security, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
The Saudi International Maritime Forum brings together leading military and naval commanders, distinguished experts, and decision‑makers from dozens of countries to address maritime security challenges and explore future directions for building more resilient and sustainable maritime systems in a world marked by accelerating challenges and growing cross‑border risks.
International entities from more than 40 countries have confirmed their participation, reinforcing the Forum’s position as an international platform for exchanging knowledge and expertise, building partnerships, and developing shared perspectives on contemporary maritime challenges.
Held every two years, the Forum reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening maritime security as a key pillar of regional and international stability. It also reinforces the Kingdom’s position as an active partner in supporting the security of seas and vital maritime routes and promoting international cooperation in the maritime sector.
Across its successive editions, the Forum has solidified its position as a global reference point for examining the profound transformations shaping the maritime domain from safeguarding strategic sea lanes and supply chains, to advancing modern technologies and unmanned systems, and ultimately protecting data security and critical infrastructure extending across the seabed.
