Saudi Arabia and Serbia are strengthening their ties, focusing on enhancing economic and diplomatic collaborations. Their partnership is set to grow across various sectors, including energy, technology, agriculture, food industries, and trade. Recent discussions have centered around joint ventures in energy, advancements in information and communications technology, and agricultural initiatives. These talks also highlighted efforts to increase the footprint of Serbian businesses in Saudi Arabia and attract Saudi investments into Serbia.
In a significant development, Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji and Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Duric convened in Belgrade to sign an agreement abolishing visa requirements for diplomatic and official passport holders. This agreement aims to streamline official interactions between the two nations. The bilateral trade between the countries has witnessed a remarkable surge, with figures reaching $121 million in 2025—almost a ninefold increase since 2012. The first half of 2026 has already seen trade escalate to $130.4 million, a 152% rise compared to the same period the previous year.
The upcoming EXPO 2027 in Belgrade and EXPO 2030 in Riyadh are anticipated to further cement these ties, offering platforms for investment, business collaborations, and the sharing of knowledge. Saudi Arabia has confirmed its participation in the Belgrade event, intending to highlight its advancements in economic development, innovation, cultural heritage, and investment prospects.
Moreover, both countries are keen on exploring partnerships in science and technology. Furthermore, Serbia is gearing up for significant participation in the Saudi Food exhibition in Jeddah, with over 50 companies expected to showcase their products. This move reflects the growing interest and potential for bilateral cooperation in the food industry.