Dhaka: Saudi businesses have expressed strong interest in investing in Bangladesh’s food, beverage, and real estate sectors as the Saudi Arabia–Bangladesh Business Summit 2025 concluded in Dhaka on October 7.

The Saudi Arabia–Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SABCCI) announced the development at a press conference held in the capital, marking the close of the three-day summit.

Ashraful Haq Chowdhury, President of SABCCI, said the visiting Saudi delegation had toured several local companies to explore potential investment opportunities and understand Bangladesh’s market dynamics.

“Riyadh is seeking diversified investment areas, giving priority to the food and beverage, IT, healthcare, and energy sectors,” he said.

Dr Khalid Al Harbi, a professor and healthcare specialist from Al-Tayyibah University in Saudi Arabia and a member of the delegation, highlighted the prospects for expanding bilateral trade and collaboration.

“We see significant opportunities to enhance cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh across multiple sectors,” he said. “Many Saudi businesses already employ Bangladeshi workers and are eager to harness their skills and innovative mindset to strengthen production capacities in both countries.”

Dr Al Harbi also noted Saudi Arabia’s growing demand for skilled manpower from Bangladesh, particularly in the healthcare sector, with a focus on nursing services.

The Saudi delegation extended gratitude to Bangladeshi expatriates for their long-standing contribution to the Kingdom’s development and workforce.

SABCCI Vice President Ahmed Yusuf Walid and Pran-RFL Group Director Uzma Chowdhury also spoke at the event, stressing the importance of fostering stronger trade ties between the two nations.

The three-day business summit, which began on October 5 at Sheraton Dhaka in Banani, brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and investors from both countries to explore new avenues for economic collaboration.