What is the Global Lighthouse Network?

The Global Lighthouse Network (GLN) is an initiative launched by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with McKinsey & Company. It aims to highlight leading industrial facilities that extensively adopt Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies to achieve comprehensive digital transformation, operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.

The network currently includes 189 industrial facilities worldwide, selected for their ability to integrate technologies such as:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Advanced Analytics
• Robotics

These technologies drive improvements in productivity, environmental sustainability, and supply chain resilience.

Saudi Arabia’s Participation

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key participant in the network through Saudi Aramco, becoming the first global energy company to have more than three facilities recognized within the GLN.

Aramco’s accredited facilities include:

• ✅ Uthmaniyah Gas Plant
• ✅ Khurais Oil Field
• ✅ Abqaiq Plants
• ✅ Yanbu Refinery
• ✅ North Ghawar Oil Production Facility (added in January 2025)

National Initiatives to Boost Industrial Transformation

In December 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources launched the “Industrial Lighthouses Program” aimed at:

• Enabling 50 national factories to adopt 4IR technologies
• Preparing them for global recognition within the Global Lighthouse Network

Why is Saudi Arabia’s Involvement Significant?

• ✅ Aligns with Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and foster industrial innovation
• ✅ Reinforces the Kingdom’s leadership in digital transformation regionally and globally
• ✅ Positions Saudi Arabia as a prime destination for advanced industrial investment

Conclusion

Through these initiatives, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to pioneering industrial and digital transformation. The country is setting a benchmark in adopting advanced technologies for sustainable and smart manufacturing.