KSA Articulated Robot Market Outlook to 2028

KSA Articulated Robot Market Overview

• The KSA articulated robot market has experienced notable growth, this is reflected by global articulated robot market reaching a valuation of USD 23 Bn in 2023. This growth is fueled by expanding industrial automation sector. The rise in demand for efficient and precise manufacturing processes, coupled with the growing adoption of advanced robotics in various industries, has significantly contributed to this market growth.

• The key players in the KSA articulated robot market include ABB Ltd., Fanuc Corporation, Yaskawa Electric Corporation, KUKA AG, and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. These companies have established a strong presence through extensive product portfolios and strategic partnerships. Their technological advancements and innovative solutions cater to the increasing demand for automation in manufacturing and other sectors, ensuring their dominance in the market.
• ABB introduced the IRB 1010, its smallest industrial robot, in October 2022. This robot is designed for high-precision applications in compact spaces, making it suitable for manufacturing miniaturized electronics and wearable devices. The IRB 1010 enhances production capabilities for smart devices, reflecting ABB's commitment to integrating advanced robotics technology into various applications
• Riyadh and Jeddah are the dominant cities in the KSA articulated robot market due to their strategic importance as industrial and economic hubs. Riyadh, being the capital, hosts numerous industrial zones and technology parks, attracting significant investments in automation. Jeddah, as a major port city, supports extensive manufacturing and logistics activities, driving the demand for articulated robots in various industries, including automotive and electronics.

KSA Articulated Robot Market Segmentation

The KSA Articulated Robot Market can be segmented based on several factors:

By Application: KSA Articulated Robot market segmentation by application is divided into manufacturing, automotive, electronics and food & beverage. In 2023, the manufacturing segment held a dominant market share due to the widespread adoption of robotic automation to enhance production efficiency and quality. The integration of articulated robots in manufacturing processes helps in reducing operational costs and minimizing human errors, making it a preferred choice among industries.

By Payload Capacity: KSA Articulated Robot market segmentation by payload capacity is divided into 0-16 kg, 16-60 kg and above 60 kg. In 2023, the 0-16 kg segment dominated the market due to its extensive use in applications requiring high precision and speed, such as electronics assembly and small parts manufacturing. The versatility and cost-effectiveness of these robots make them a popular choice in various industries.

By Region: KSA Articulated Robot market segmentation by region is divided into north, south, east and west. In 2023, the North region held a dominant market share due to its status as the industrial and economic hub of Saudi Arabia. The presence of numerous industrial zones and technology parks in Riyadh has attracted significant investments in robotic automation, driving the market growth in this region.

KSA Articulated Robot Market Competitive Landscape

• Fanuc Corporation: In 2024, Fanuc Corporation introduced a new range of high-precision articulated robots specifically designed for the electronics manufacturing industry. This new series includes the M-20iD and M-30iD models, which offer improved speed and accuracy, catering to the growing demand for automation in assembling electronic components. Additionally, Fanuc signed a strategic partnership with a major Saudi automotive manufacturer to supply robotic systems for their new production line, further enhancing its presence in the region.
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation: In 2023, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation introduced its new line of high-speed articulated robots in the Saudi market, specifically the MELFA series. These robots are designed to enhance efficiency in automotive and electronics manufacturing. Additionally, Mitsubishi Electric signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a Saudi government agency to develop and implement advanced automation solutions across various industries.

KSA Articulated Robot Industry Analysis

KSA Articulated Robot Market Growth Drivers:

• Advancements in Robotics Technology: Technological advancements in robotics are significantly propelling the growth of the articulated robot market in KSA. The introduction of collaborative robots (cobots) by companies such as Yaskawa Electric Corporation and ABB Ltd. has revolutionized industrial automation. These cobots, designed to work alongside human operators, have gained traction due to their safety features and ease of integration into existing workflows.
• Expansion of Industrial Manufacturing: The expansion of industrial manufacturing in Saudi Arabia is another crucial driver for the articulated robot market. In 2023, the Saudi Arabian government launched several initiatives under the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) to attract foreign investments and develop local manufacturing capabilities. For example, the establishment of new industrial zones in Riyadh and Jeddah has created a conducive environment for the adoption of robotic automation.
• Increasing Investments in the Automotive Sector: The surge in investments in the KSA automotive sector is a significant growth driver for the articulated robot market. For instance, Lucid Motors' establishment of a manufacturing facility in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) is a substantial development, with an estimated investment of USD 1 billion. This facility aims to produce 150,000 electric vehicles annually by 2025, necessitating the deployment of advanced robotic automation to enhance production efficiency and maintain high-quality standards.

KSA Articulated Robot Market Challenges:

• Regulatory and Compliance Issues: Regulatory and compliance issues also pose challenges to the growth of the articulated robot market in KSA. The implementation of robotic automation involves adhering to stringent safety and operational standards set by government authorities. Ensuring compliance with these regulations can be a complex and time-consuming process for manufacturers. For example, the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) has established specific guidelines for the use of industrial robots.
• Skill Gaps in the Workforce: Another challenge is the skill gaps in the workforce required to operate and maintain advanced robotic systems. The rapid adoption of articulated robots necessitates a workforce proficient in robotics and automation technologies. However, there is a shortage of skilled technicians and engineers in Saudi Arabia, which hampers the effective deployment and utilization of these systems.

KSA Articulated Robot Market Government Initiatives:

• Vision 2030: The Saudi Vision 2030 initiative, launched in 2016, aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil. As part of this vision, the government has been promoting industrial automation and advanced manufacturing technologies. In 2023, the Vision 2030 initiative to support the adoption of robotic automation in key industrial sectors, including automotive and electronics. This funding aims to enhance productivity, improve quality, and create high-skilled jobs.
• Saudi Robotics and Automation Program: In 2024, the Saudi Arabian government introduced the Saudi Robotics and Automation Program to enhance the adoption of robotics across various sectors. This program, with a budget of USD 150 million, aims to support research and development, provide training and education, and facilitate the integration of robotic solutions in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

KSA Articulated Robot Future Market Outlook

The KSA Articulated Robot Market is expected to show significant growth by 2028 driven by increasing investments in industrial automation and advancements in robotic technologies. The government's initiatives under Vision 2030 and the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) are expected to create a conducive environment for the adoption of robotic automation across various sectors.

Future Market Trends

• Expansion into Non-Industrial Sectors: The adoption of articulated robots will expand beyond traditional industrial sectors into non-industrial applications such as healthcare, logistics, and agriculture. Robots will be utilized for tasks such as medical surgeries, automated warehousing, and precision farming, driven by advancements in robotic technologies and increasing demand for automation in these sectors.
• Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI): The future of the KSA articulated robot market will see increased integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in robotic systems. AI-powered robots will offer enhanced capabilities, such as real-time decision-making, predictive maintenance, and adaptive learning, making them more efficient and versatile in industrial applications.