Riyadh’s Cultural Investment Conference shows how Saudi creativity is turning into big business

Riyadh’s Cultural Investment Conference shows how Saudi creativity is turning into big business

Cultural economy emphasized as a growth engine at Riyadh summit

In late September, Saudi Arabia hosted its first Cultural Investment Conference in Riyadh, convening global investors, creatives and officials to explore culture’s economic potential. This inaugural two-day forum underscored culture as both a growth engine and source of national pride under Vision 2030. Industry leaders noted the kingdom’s young population and burgeoning creative sectors – such as new cinemas and film funds – as signs that cultural assets can drive business. Officials cited about $227 million already invested in the cultural scene and highlighted plans to train talent and form partnerships to turn heritage and media into profitable industries. The conference set the stage for substantial private and public investment in culture, linking Saudi culture strategy with major events like the World Cup and Expo to spur economic growth.