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MESIF IN THE MIDDLE EAST: RIYADH EVENT SUMMARY AND KEY HIGHLIGHTS

The Middle East Sports Investment Forum, held on the 7th of January 2025, was a resounding success, bringing together senior leaders and innovators to explore the transformative opportunities in sports across the region.


Conference room with panel discussion; attendees in formal attire seated. Projected images and text visible on curved wall, warm lighting.

Hosted at the Ministry of Investment headquarters in Riyadh, the forum showcased Saudi Arabia's rapidly evolving sports landscape and its pivotal role in driving economic and social development under Vision 2030.

Key discussions centered on Saudi Arabia’s ambitions for the FIFA World Cup 2034, emphasizing how the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 is fostering a vibrant sports ecosystem. Attendees explored the strategic role of infrastructure, grassroots initiatives, and digital advancements in supporting mass participation, nurturing youth talent, and achieving elite success on the global stage.


Another major topic of the forum was the vast investment opportunities in the Middle East’s sports sector. From club privatisations to sports academies and technology innovations, the region was highlighted as a growing hub for both domestic and international investment. The collaborative efforts between public and private sectors were showcased as pivotal for achieving long-term success and sustainability.


H.E Eisa Hilal Al Hezami, Chairman, Sharjah Sports Council.                                                                         Abdullah Aldubaikhi, Assistant Minister, Ministry of Investment, KSA                                                            Eng. Abdulrahman Justaniah, Deputy Minister, Strategic Planning & Investment, Ministry of Sport     Mansour Almokbel, CEO, Saudi Motorsport Company                                                                                    Fahad Alsubaie, Director - Clubs Investment, Ministry of Sports, KSA
H.E Eisa Hilal Al Hezami, Chairman, Sharjah Sports Council. Abdullah Aldubaikhi, Assistant Minister, Ministry of Investment, KSA Eng. Abdulrahman Justaniah, Deputy Minister, Strategic Planning & Investment, Ministry of Sport Mansour Almokbel, CEO, Saudi Motorsport Company Fahad Alsubaie, Director - Clubs Investment, Ministry of Sports, KSA

The forum also offered valuable insights into lessons learned from hosting global events and strategies for creating lasting legacies. Key takeaways included the importance of aligning infrastructure with community needs, prioritising sustainability, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance fan experiences and engagement.


H.E. Eng. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, Minister of Investment
H.E. Eng. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, Minister of Investment

As MESIF continues to grow, the Riyadh forum set the stage for deeper collaboration and more impactful opportunities.


For a more comprehensive look at the insights and opportunities discussed, download the full MESIF Riyadh 2025 Session & MESIF Riyadh 2025 Roundtable Reports below.





Next up, join us at MESIF London 2025, taking place on 27–28 May at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where we aim to deliver the most elite edition of the forum yet.

Text "MESIF London 2025" over a stadium backdrop. Logos of Ministry of Investment, Ministry of Sport, and EY as partners. Modern, professional mood. 

Middle East Sports Investment Forum.

 

 
 
 

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