SAL Logistics Services, Saudi Arabia’s national leader in cargo handling, logistics solutions, and supply chain management, has been awarded the IATA Security Management System (SeMS) Level 1 (Suitable) certification by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), becoming the first company in Saudi Arabia and the second across the Middle East and North Africa to receive this certification.
The certification recognizes the effectiveness of SAL’s security management framework across its cargo handling and ground operations, reflecting the company’s commitment to implementing internationally recognized standards and fostering a proactive security culture built on risk management, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
What SeMS certification means for SAL
This achievement was made possible through the expertise, dedication, and commitment of SAL’s operations and security teams. In recognition of this milestone, SAL officially received the certification during a ceremony held at IATA Headquarters in Geneva. The event formed part of a two-day program that included certification review sessions and strategic meetings with IATA executives and subject matter experts, covering the continuous improvement of security management systems, best practices in ground handling, developments in the Middle East and Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) air cargo markets, as well as IATA’s solutions and training programs for cargo and ground handling operations.
Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Omar Talal Hariri, Chief Executive Officer of SAL, said: “Security is the foundation of trusted cargo operations. Achieving the IATA Security Management System certification as the first company in Saudi Arabia reflects the advancement of SAL’s security practices. It is a testament to the dedication of our teams. It reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class standards that safeguard our customers while enhancing operational excellence across Saudi Arabia’s aviation and logistics sectors.”
The certification further strengthens the confidence of regulators, airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics partners in SAL’s security governance and operational readiness. It also underscores the company’s commitment to operational excellence and to setting higher benchmarks for security management across the region, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for trade, transport, and logistics in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Strengthening Air Cargo Security and Operational Excellence
Air cargo security plays a vital role in maintaining the reliability of international supply chains. As global trade expands and shipments move through increasingly interconnected logistics networks, cargo handlers must adopt robust procedures to identify risks, protect goods and maintain compliance with industry requirements. Security management systems help organisations establish structured processes for assessing threats, monitoring performance and continuously improving operational practices.
The IATA Security Management System (SeMS) framework supports a systematic approach to security by encouraging organisations to identify potential vulnerabilities, assess operational risks and strengthen accountability across their activities. Rather than relying solely on individual security measures, a management system integrates security considerations into everyday operations, supporting a more consistent and proactive approach.
For SAL, achieving Level 1 (Suitable) certification represents an important milestone in its efforts to strengthen security governance across cargo handling and ground operations. The recognition also highlights the importance of collaboration between operational teams, security specialists and industry stakeholders in maintaining effective standards throughout the air cargo process.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Logistics Transformation
Saudi Arabia has placed logistics development at the centre of its economic diversification strategy under Saudi Vision 2030. Through investments in transport infrastructure, supply chain capabilities and international connectivity, the Kingdom aims to strengthen its position as a logistics hub linking Asia, Europe, Africa and other global markets.
Air cargo is an important component of this ambition, particularly for time-sensitive shipments, high-value goods and products requiring specialised handling. Strong security practices can help support the confidence of airlines, freight forwarders, exporters and international logistics partners while contributing to more dependable cargo operations.
As trade volumes and supply chain complexity evolve, companies operating in the logistics sector must continue investing in employee training, risk assessment, technology and operational processes. Industry certifications can provide a structured benchmark for evaluating these capabilities and identifying opportunities for further improvement.
SAL’s achievement therefore represents more than an individual corporate milestone. It reflects the growing importance of internationally aligned security management within Saudi Arabia’s aviation and logistics ecosystem. Continued investment in operational excellence, security awareness and industry collaboration will remain essential as the Kingdom works to expand its role in global trade and transportation.
Related reading: Turkish Airlines Manages Capacity War Impact, Records USD 197M Profit
Ahmed Abdul Wasey
Managing Editor, Eat ‘N Stays
Ahmed Abdul Wasey is the Managing Editor in Eat ‘N Stays, overseeing all editorial coverage of travel, hospitality, and food across Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region. He sets the publication’s editorial direction and reviews coverage across hotels, restaurants, tourism, cruise, and industry news before it publishes.
Have a story tip, correction, or question about our coverage? Reach Ahmed directly at pr@eatnstays.com.
