The inaugural forum, organized by Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE) in collaboration with the Swiss Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the Swiss Financial Innovation Desk (FIND), and Fintech Saudi, gathered 47 Swiss participants from 40 companies. The attendees ranged from startups to established private banks and investors.

According to Suhail El Obeid, Senior Consultant Middle East at S-GE, the forum was launched to showcase Switzerland’s innovation in fintech while exploring new opportunities in the Saudi market.

The program featured an investor panel, thematic workshops on topics such as wealth management, infrastructure, data management, and alternative finance. Participants also visited the Saudi Ministry of Investment (MISA), the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), a startup incubator, and attended a reception at the residence of the Swiss ambassador.

The Exchange Was Met With Positive Feedback. (Image: zVg)

Optimism Among Entrepreneurs

The reactions were overwhelmingly positive. One participant highlighted Saudi Arabia’s progress in digital central bank currencies and asset tokenization. «The focus on new payment solutions and fostering collaboration between the two nations is truly inspiring,» they said.

Eva Selamlar-Leuthold, who led the delegation, added, «The event offered an inspiring insight into Saudi Arabia’s dynamic fintech ecosystem and its bold, forward-looking ambitions under Vision 2030.»

«Together, we are shaping the future of fintech and strengthening the Saudi-Swiss partnership,» wrote Ambassador Yasmine Chatila-Zwahlen on X.

A Follow-Up to the Forum Is Planned. (Image: zVg)

Future Initiatives in the Pipeline

The forum’s success has laid the foundation for future collaborations. Many participants expressed interest in a repeat event, potentially hosted in Switzerland. «We see significant potential for continuing this collaboration and will work with our partners to create more opportunities for Swiss fintechs,» said El Obeid.

For 2025, S-GE, in partnership with the Swiss Embassy in Saudi Arabia and Fintech Saudi, is planning additional initiatives to promote collaboration in fintech. «We will continue to provide platforms that foster exchange and networking between Swiss and Saudi companies,» El Obeid concluded.