Strengthening Local Manufacturing under Vision 2030
Honeywell has announced a major step in its industrial automation expansion by launching a new production line for its advanced handheld mobile computers—the ScanPal EDA57 and CT47—at its Dhahran facility in Saudi Arabia. This initiative supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals by driving high-tech manufacturing and strengthening the local control systems supply chain.
The Dhahran facility, part of Honeywell’s growing Middle East footprint, is now equipped for assembly, integration, and testing. As a result, the company can deliver complex automation products faster, reduce import dependency, and enhance on-the-ground customer support.
Advancing Smart Manufacturing and Digital Transformation
The localization of Honeywell’s handheld computer production marks a key milestone in the region’s push toward digital transformation and factory automation. By enabling local production of connected devices, Honeywell provides Saudi industries with tools to accelerate data-driven decision-making and enhance workforce mobility.
This move also reflects a wider industry trend—global automation leaders are increasingly shifting manufacturing closer to key markets to ensure faster deployment, improved service, and more resilient supply chains.
ScanPal EDA57: Empowering Frontline Efficiency
The Honeywell ScanPal EDA57 is engineered for rugged industrial environments such as logistics, field service, and retail operations. Featuring 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, the device enables seamless real-time data exchange within PLC and DCS-based control systems.
With its durable design, advanced barcode scanning, and intuitive user interface, the EDA57 allows operators to streamline tasks like inventory management and asset tracking. For automation engineers, it bridges mobile computing with industrial control networks—an increasingly vital link in modern smart factories.
CT47: Built for Resilient, Connected Operations
The Honeywell CT47, part of the Mobility Edge platform, offers enterprise-grade durability and long-term software lifecycle support. It provides industrial operators with secure connectivity, remote diagnostics, and real-time asset visibility—core elements for modern factory automation and process control.
Its rugged design withstands harsh conditions in production lines, warehouses, and logistics hubs. Moreover, the CT47’s integration with industrial data platforms helps facilities achieve predictive maintenance and higher operational uptime—key goals in advanced automation systems.
Honeywell’s Strategic Role in Saudi Industrial Growth
George Bou Mitri, President of Honeywell Industrial Automation for the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, and Central Asia, emphasized the strategic significance of this milestone: “By manufacturing globally trusted technologies in Dhahran, we empower local industries to digitalize operations, improve productivity, and create sustainable value in line with Vision 2030.”
Nearly half of Honeywell’s Saudi workforce are nationals, reflecting the company’s ongoing investment in technology transfer, workforce development, and knowledge-sharing. These initiatives strengthen local expertise in automation engineering, robotics, and control systems integration—essential for developing future-ready industries.
Expert Insight: Localization as a Catalyst for Automation Growth
From an industry perspective, Honeywell’s localization effort aligns with a broader trend toward regionalized manufacturing in automation. Establishing production capacity within Saudi Arabia not only accelerates delivery and customization but also builds long-term resilience in the automation supply chain.
In a market where downtime costs are critical, localized manufacturing ensures faster availability of PLC modules, DCS controllers, and mobile computing devices—improving system reliability and maintenance responsiveness.
Application Scenarios: Industrial and Logistics Efficiency
Use Case 1 – Smart Warehousing:
The ScanPal EDA57 enhances material tracking and order fulfillment in automated warehouses. Integrated with MES or SCADA systems, it provides real-time updates on inventory movement.
Use Case 2 – Manufacturing Line Optimization:
The CT47 can be deployed in production environments for equipment monitoring, barcode verification, and process validation—directly linking mobile operators with plant control networks.
Use Case 3 – Field Service Automation:
In remote oil and gas or utility applications, both devices support field technicians with live system diagnostics and maintenance documentation—reducing service time and human error.