China–Saudi Major Metal 3D Printing Partnership: XDM and Tamimi Group Form Joint Venture

In recent years, Saudi Arabia’s investment in and collaboration with Chinese technology enterprises has been steadily increasing, with 3D printing emerging as one of the nation’s strategic focus areas.

On September 23, 2025, Panda3dp.com reported that Suzhou XDM 3D Printing Technology Co., Ltd. (XDM) — a leading enterprise in metal additive manufacturing — and Saudi Arabia’s century-old industrial conglomerate Tamimi Group officially signed a joint venture agreement in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The newly formed high-tech company will specialize in R&D and industrial application of additive manufacturing technologies, marking a significant step forward in China–Saudi cooperation in advanced manufacturing.

Strategic Partnership for High-End Manufacturing

The joint venture will fully explore business opportunities within Saudi Aramco’s industrial ecosystem, focusing on 3D printing of petrochemical equipment and critical spare parts across Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region. It will also target high-value-added 3D printing markets in Europe and North America, advancing international collaboration in next-generation manufacturing technologies.

This project is part of the 35 major cooperation agreements signed between China and Saudi Arabia in December 2022. Its successful launch signifies a deepening of bilateral relations in cutting-edge technology and industrial innovation.

At the signing ceremony, Abdullah Al-Wahabi, Director of Advanced Manufacturing Development at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment, remarked:

“The signing of this project marks an important milestone in Sino–Saudi cooperation in manufacturing. Since XDM’s 2020 strategic partnership with Saudi Aramco, the Ministry has continuously supported its development. Advanced and intelligent manufacturing are central to Saudi Arabia’s ‘Vision 2030’ strategy. The introduction of 3D printing will provide critical technological support for the country’s industrial transformation and equipment localization.”

Joint Commitment to Industrial Advancement

Professor Zhang Zhengwen, Chairman of XDM, stated:

“XDM has always been committed to exploring new application scenarios and products in 3D printing. Our collaboration with Saudi Aramco and the Saudi market is a strategic cornerstone of our global expansion. Since becoming Aramco’s strategic partner in 2020 and its first 3D printing supplier of key components in 2023, we have worked tirelessly to realize this project. The joint venture is not only a gateway to the Saudi and Gulf markets but also a vital part of our global strategy. We will focus on rapid business growth and local team development to contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”

Mohammed Alyas Khan, President of Tamimi Group International Development, added:

“As a long-term strategic partner of Saudi Aramco, Tamimi Group has a strong foundation in petrochemical, retail, catering, and construction sectors. The establishment of this joint venture marks the beginning of our high-tech transformation, opening a new chapter in the company’s evolution.”

XDM’s Technological Strength

XDM is one of the few companies worldwide capable of manufacturing ultra-large-format metal 3D printers — with build volumes up to 2000 × 2000 mm — and holds nearly 100 intellectual property rights. The company offers a full product lineup of large, medium, and small SLM (Selective Laser Melting) systems, supported by a complete software ecosystem and advanced design technologies for 3D-printed components.

Founded in Suzhou, XDM gained international recognition in 2017 with the launch of the XDM750 (750 × 750 mm build size), then broke new ground in 2021 by releasing the world’s first 2-meter-format SLM printer, cementing its leadership in large-scale metal additive manufacturing.

Tamimi Group’s Industrial Heritage

Founded in 1940, Tamimi Group is a diversified Saudi conglomerate with operations spanning oilfield services, supermarkets, food services, real estate, and engineering. Its petrochemical division specializes in supplying and supporting equipment for the oil and gas sector. With over 80 years of operational experience, the group plays a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s industrial ecosystem and economic diversification efforts.

This landmark partnership between XDM and Tamimi Group represents a fusion of Chinese 3D printing expertise with Saudi industrial capabilities. By combining XDM’s technological strength with Tamimi’s regional experience and engineering infrastructure, the joint venture will directly serve Saudi Aramco and related industries, expand into high-value global markets, and serve as a model of Belt and Road high-tech cooperation — advancing global progress in intelligent and sustainable manufacturing.