Downtown Design
redazione 16/09/2026

MIPIM Middle East makes its debut

The inaugural edition of MIPIM’s sister event to Cannes will take place in Riyadh on 20–21 October

MIPIM is growing, expanding its reach into the Middle East. The international benchmark event for the real estate industry, with its long-established presence in Cannes, is extending its footprint across some of the world’s most dynamic markets, bringing the real estate and investment community closer to key policymakers and project owners. Following the recent debut of MIPIM Asia in Hong Kong, the spotlight now turns to MIPIM Middle East, scheduled to take place next month in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The two-day event, on 20 and 21 October at the Sofitel Riyadh, is a natural extension of MIPIM’s broader vision. The Middle East has long been a major focus for the community surrounding the event, while several countries across the region - particularly Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait - are pursuing long-term, future-focused strategies, with transformation roadmaps and policies designed to diversify their economies, attract private investment and raise standards of living.

“MIPIM Middle East’s ambition is to create a platform capable of transforming the way business opportunities are generated,” the organisers explain. “A place where global capital meets the region’s vision, where leaders engage in a high-impact environment and world-class expertise fuels ambitious development projects.”

The programme for MIPIM Middle East will therefore combine high-value networking opportunities with curated content and insights, with the aim of generating tangible business opportunities. Among those expected to attend are 300 investors, selected according to their investment capacity, readiness to enter the market and existing relationships with organisations based in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). A further 400 exhibitors are expected, representing giga-projects, developers, public authorities and regional and international companies.

A key focus will also be placed on meetings and insight sessions exploring trends in real estate, investment and geopolitics, while offering an overview of how these markets are opening up to international investment. Confirmed speakers include Abdulaziz Alaqel, Chief Development Officer of Expo 2030 Riyadh; Paul Devonshire, Managing Director of the Global Investors Group at Affinius Capital; and Jaspreet Randhawa, Managing Director and Head of Investments at Burkhan World Investments.

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