ACHEMA, the century-old global powerhouse in chemical engineering and process technology, is expanding into Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom accelerates industrial investment and energy transition initiatives.

 

The inaugural ACHEMA Middle East will take place from 26–28 October 2026 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center (RICEC), under the patronage of the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and supported by ASAS.

 

Saudi Arabia is spearheading large-scale projects such as the carbon capture hub in Jubail, aiming to trap up to 9 million tonnes of CO₂ annually by 2028, and the USD 8.4 billion NEOM Green Hydrogen project, targeting 600 tonnes per day of clean hydrogen by 2027. These initiatives mark a regional shift toward system integration, decarbonisation, and advanced manufacturing.

 

“ACHEMA Middle East is not just a regional extension – it’s a strategic evolution. By bringing ACHEMA to Riyadh, we’re creating a platform where science, engineering and industrial innovation align with the ambitions of one of the world’s most dynamic industrial economies,” said Björn Mathes, CEO of DECHEMA Exhibitions.

 

Organised by Messe Frankfurt and powered by DECHEMA, the event aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, supporting localisation, sustainability, digitalisation, and long-term investment across chemicals, energy, pharmaceuticals, food production, water technologies, and advanced materials.

 

“Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant industrial transformation. ACHEMA Middle East reflects how international collaboration and knowledge exchange can support regional progress and contribute to the development of sustainable, competitive industrial ecosystems,” added Azzan Mohammed, Managing Director, Messe Frankfurt Saudi Arabia.

 

ACHEMA Middle East will showcase six integrated product groups, spanning industrial engineering, process technology, laboratory solutions, automation, digital systems, packaging, supply chain, and innovation-led R&D. Its programme will focus on six innovation themes — process, pharma, lab, digital, green, and energy innovation — featuring CPD-accredited conferences, technical sessions, and expert-led discussions on electrification, bioprocessing, AI-enabled operations, and circular economy models.

 

Early market interest is strong, with confirmed participation from Yokogawa, GMM Pfaudler, Hach, Beckhoff, Aptek, Pharmadule Morimatsu, Tofflon, and Sealmatic, signaling robust engagement ahead of the inaugural event.

 

With its focus on technical depth, system integration, and applied knowledge exchange, ACHEMA Middle East 2026 is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region’s process industry.