Saudi Investment in Italy: A Focus on Real Estate, Tourism, and Industry
Economic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Italy are experiencing significant growth, driven by a mutual desire to enhance cooperation across various sectors. The increasing Saudi interest in investing in Italy is evident in vital sectors such as real estate, tourism, and industry, in addition to a strong push for strategic partnerships with Italian counterparts.
1. Real Estate
Market Appeal: Italian real estate is an attractive destination for Saudi investors, especially in historic cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, as well as in the stunning coastal areas. Investors are drawn to the historical and architectural value of the properties, along with the promising potential in the luxury housing and tourist rental sectors.
Major Investments: In recent years, Italy has witnessed notable Saudi investments in the real estate sector, including the purchase of historic palaces and luxury villas in regions like Costa Smeralda in Sardinia and Tuscany. Saudi real estate companies are also showing interest in developing new residential and commercial projects, leveraging Italy’s strategic location in the heart of Europe.
2. Tourism
Diversifying Investments: Saudi investors are looking to diversify their tourism portfolio by investing in luxury hotels and resorts in Italy. Significant investment opportunities exist in historic hotels within major cities, as well as in developing tourist resorts in coastal and mountainous regions.
Tourism Partnerships: Saudi companies, such as the “ROSHN Group,” are working to form partnerships with Italian tourism companies to exchange expertise and develop joint projects. This collaboration aims to attract Saudi tourists to Italy by providing services and products that meet their specific needs.
3. Industry
Qualitative Investments: Saudi interest in the Italian industrial sector is evident in areas like technology, renewable energy, luxury cars, and fashion. These sectors are key strengths of the Italian economy and offer great opportunities for Saudi companies to expand their operations and benefit from Italian innovation and expertise.
Public Investment Fund (PIF): The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role in these partnerships, actively seeking strategic investment opportunities in leading Italian companies. These investments are intended to transfer expertise and technology to the Kingdom, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of diversifying income sources.
4. Partnerships
Private Sector: The interest goes beyond direct investments to include the establishment of strategic partnerships between Saudi and Italian companies. Numerous economic forums and conferences are held to bring together business leaders from both countries to explore collaboration opportunities in fields such as infrastructure, financial services, and innovation.

Government Agreements: The governments of both countries are working to sign bilateral agreements to facilitate investments and exchange expertise. These agreements include simplifying legal procedures, protecting investments, and offering incentives to attract Saudi capital.
In conclusion, the Saudi interest in investing in Italy presents a golden opportunity for both countries to strengthen their economic relations. These partnerships are expected to continue to grow, benefiting both economies and contributing to the achievement of shared development goals