Saudi-Austrian Trade Ties Surge as Imports to Vienna Jump 29%
RIYADH — Austria’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Oskar Wustinger, celebrated the rapid deepening of Saudi-Austrian relations during a reception in Riyadh ahead of Austria’s National Day, emphasizing a year of remarkable economic growth and expanding cooperation, acccording to Arab News.
“The excellent Austrian-Saudi relations are built on a foundation of solid friendship and ever-broadening fields of collaboration,” Wustinger said. “Fast-growing economic exchange and cooperation remain vital and dynamic elements.”
According to the envoy, Austrian exports to Saudi Arabia soared 49 percent in 2024, while Saudi imports to Austria rose 29 percent, reflecting a strengthening two-way partnership.
Senior Saudi officials attended the event, including Faisal Al-Sudairy, undersecretary of the Riyadh region, representing Riyadh Governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar.
Wustinger praised Saudi Vision 2030 as “impressively bold and ambitious,” noting that Austrian firms—renowned for their expertise in engineering, green technologies, and infrastructure—are well-positioned to contribute. He highlighted growing collaboration in mining, tourism, education, and sustainable innovation, supported by a steady flow of Austrian trade missions to the Kingdom.
The ambassador revealed that an increasing number of Austrian companies are opening regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, with another expected to launch in December.
Tourism also continues to thrive: Saudi visits to Austria surged 34 percent this summer, aided by simplified Schengen visa procedures.
“Austria is already a favorite for Saudi travelers, and it’s becoming even more so,” Wustinger said, adding that several Saudi football teams now choose Austria for their summer training camps.
Education rounds out the growing ties, with Saudi participants enrolling in executive programs at the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna and the Austrian Leadership Programs.
