Riyadh Hosts the Global Investment Conference - November 25-27

Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Saudi Arabia will host the 28th annual Global Investment Conference (WIC) in Riyadh from November 25 to 27, 2024. The event is organized by the "Invest in Saudi Arabia" platform in partnership with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA).

This prominent event, which focuses on harnessing digital transformation and sustainable growth through expanding investment opportunities, will bring together global leaders from both the public and private sectors, top investors, representatives of international organizations, and stakeholders involved in investment development, diversification, and enhancement.

On this occasion, Minister of Investment Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih stated: "The hosting of the Global Investment Conference this year in Riyadh will provide a platform for the Kingdom to present its strategic vision to its partners at the conference. It will also be a valuable opportunity to highlight the Kingdom's position and potential as a trusted partner in investment and sustainable economic growth. The Kingdom welcomes investment leaders and influencers from all over the world to build partnerships that will benefit both Saudi Arabia and the world."

As a result of Vision 2030, which has led to groundbreaking economic reforms, Saudi Arabia has issued more than 28,900 foreign investment licenses, clearly reflecting how the Kingdom has become a primary destination for international investors. This is especially true with the allowance of 100% foreign ownership in specific sectors, simplifying commercial registration processes, visa issuance, and other facilitative measures. These efforts have collectively created a favorable and attractive investment environment across various sectors, such as renewable energy, logistics, and artificial intelligence. The Kingdom's developed investment environment enables the formation of a resilient economy at the forefront of innovation-based economies.

On his part, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies, Ismail Ersahin, explained that the conference will provide a rich space for investors and investment promotion agencies to discuss emerging investment opportunities in the global arena, characterized by rapid growth and development.

The 28th Global Investment Conference program includes a series of key events, such as high-level ministerial dialogues, in-depth panel discussions on technology, sustainability, and economic cooperation, along with workshops led by experts for professionals in the investment sector.

The entrepreneurship-focused track of the event will spotlight the transformative role of startups and innovators, while exclusive networking sessions will facilitate strategic partnerships between investors, small and medium-sized enterprises, and other potential partners. Participants will also celebrate the achievements of investment promotion agencies in a dedicated ceremony, where innovation and excellence in facilitating investment will be recognized.

The 28th Global Investment Conference is expected to gain special significance as it aligns with global investment themes, including the massive impact of technologies and artificial intelligence, resilience in global supply chains, transitions to sustainable energy, and the transformative role that entrepreneurs and startups can play in reshaping the investment landscape—traditionally led by large corporations. Leaders and stakeholders in the investment world will discuss how these factors are reshaping economies and supporting ambitious investment models around the globe.

The conference program is designed to provide attendees with the tools, knowledge, and networking channels needed to achieve meaningful economic impact, with a focus on developing investment opportunities.