Strategic Expansion in the Middle East
Global beverage leader PepsiCo has officially opened its new regional headquarters in Riyadh, located in King Abdullah Financial District. This move highlights the company’s deep-rooted and long-term dedication to the Middle East region.
Spanning 2,800 square meters, the cutting-edge facility is designed to have over 150 employees and will serve as a strategic hub for PepsiCo’s operations across the Middle East.
“Our new RHQ in Riyadh signals our firm and long-term commitment to this region’s future and its people through job creation, agricultural partnerships, social impact and environmental stewardship,”
said Ahmed El-Sheikh, President and General Manager for Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan Foods.
Driving Innovation Through R&D
As part of its regional growth strategy, PepsiCo revealed plans to establish a new research and development center in Saudi Arabia, backed by a SR30 million ($7.99 million) investment. This R&D facility will drive innovation in product formulation and packaging tailored to the unique tastes of Middle Eastern consumers. The center will include a culinary lab and a high-tech sensory studio, both aimed at refining products to better meet local preferences.
Empowering Communities
Beyond its commercial ambitions, PepsiCo’s Riyadh headquarters will also serve as a base for its flagship social impact initiatives. Programs like Tamakani and MENA Innovates will operate from the new office, focusing on youth empowerment and sustainable innovation.
Investments in Saudi Arabia
PepsiCo invested more than SR9 billion over the past eight years. In 2023 alone, the company dedicated SR199 million to expand its Dammam manufacturing plant.
Currently, PepsiCo has a presence in 86 locations across Saudi Arabia and employs nearly 9,000 people through its direct operations and franchise network.
