ArabWeeks

Downtown Design, the leading fair for contemporary and high-quality design in the Middle East, will open its inaugural fair in Saudi Arabia later this year. Downtown Design Riyadh will take place from 20-23 May 2025 in JAX District, Riyadh, a creative hub that combines cutting-edge cultural infrastructure with the stunning backdrop of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al Turaif. Held in partnership with the Saudi Arabia Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the fair will offer design enthusiasts, professional and industry leaders with direct access to original, contemporary design brands and limited-edition works from around the world, along with local and regional designers and design studios. Exhibitors include: Huda Lighting showcasing a portfolio of lighting solutions and collections; Cosentino exhibiting the latest in sustainable surface materials; Natuzzi presenting its modern, cutting-edge furniture collection; Iwan Maktabi unveiling a new collaboration with a local creative; Collectional bringing a curated selection of contemporary design excellence and limited-edition pieces, featuring prominent international names; while Lasvit and Venini will present their hand-crafted, bespoke glass installations.Downtown Design Riyadh will echo Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to offer the highest in cultural quality and will be positioned to help cater to the Saudi Arabian interior design market, valued at USD 3.66 billion in 2024 and projected to grow to USD 4.63 billion by 2029, driven by real estate developments in retail, hospitality and luxury residential properties. Central to this demand is the country’s globally recognised projects such as Neom, The Line and Diriyah Gate.Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, stated, “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s design sector is an integral part of the country’s culture and reflects our vibrant heritage. As part of Vision 2030, we are supporting the flourishing architecture and design community and offering opportunities that mirror the Kingdom’s rich and diverse culture. Downtown Design Riyadh offers an energetic, creative environment bringing together the local and global creative design scene, supporting Saudi Arabia to become a leading voice in the design sector and cultural community.” Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, added, “We are seeing so much enthusiasm and excitement amongst the design community in Saudi Arabia, and we are thrilled to be launching Downtown Design Riyadh. We will be offering the first high-quality, contemporary design fair in Saudi Arabia, connecting global and regional brands with architects, interior designers, developers and design enthusiasts in an environment driven by meaningful connections and the desire to amplify the country’s design scene. “With Downtown Design’s solid reputation built over a decade of operating in the Middle East, we are honored to be partnering with the Saudi Arabia Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture and together, we will enable the regional and global design industry to access this dynamic market, in a highly curated showcase of the finest in contemporary design.”Downtown Design Riyadh will be held at the inspiring JAX District and will take place throughout the venues state-of-the-art exhibition halls and VIP areas, offering immersive cultural experiences within the vibrant contemporary art and design setting of the four-day fair. JAX District creative hub, an industrial heritage site in Diriyah is located just 30 minutes from Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, providing local and international visitors heading to Downtown Design Riyadh a seamless travel experience. JAX District is home to acclaimed artists, galleries, leading media, creative agencies, and SAMOCA, the first contemporary art museum in Saudi Arabia. For exhibitor enquiries and further information about Downtown Design Riyadh please contact Riyadh@downtowndesign.com or visit: downtowndesign.com | @downtowndesignd

The 2025 RLC Global Forum opened today in Riyadh under the theme “Rebuilding a Shared Future,” bringing together the most influential leaders from across the retail ecosystem. Held at the Fairmont Riyadh, the Forum set the stage for high-impact discussions on resilience, digital acceleration, AI-driven innovation, and strategic collaborations, uniting global CEOS, industry pioneers, investors and policymakers to address the challenges and explore solutions that will define the future of global retail.The day kicked-off with high-impact discussions that tackled the most pressing issues shaping the future of retail. The “Business Outlook: Navigating A New Global Order” session examined the impact of geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and rapid technological transformation on global commerce, with international business leaders exploring strategies for turning volatility into opportunity while driving resilience and innovation. Meanwhile, “A New Leadership Order: Building Growth in Turbulent Times” focused on the role of visionary leadership in overcoming economic headwinds, optimizing productivity, and fostering sustainable growth. Industry experts shared insights on navigating complex business ecosystems and leveraging strategic adaptability to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace.Discussions also centered on the transformative power of social commerce, which is reshaping how consumers shop, interact and engage with brands. With e-commerce in the Middle East projected to reach USD 57 billion by 2026, the role of marketplaces in meeting evolving consumer expectations remains paramount. Statistics show that 80% of regional shoppers prefer online platforms for their convenience and variety, raising critical questions about how businesses can design consumer-centric marketplaces that cater to regional dynamics while maintaining global competitiveness.In addition, Zia Daniell Wigder, Chief Content Officer at EMARKETER, showcased a specially drafted report in partnership with the RLC Global Forum. This session provided a data-driven roadmap for the future of e-commerce in the GCC, offering valuable insights into consumer trends, market dynamics, and strategic opportunities for sustainable growth in the region.AI was another major highlight of the day, with multiple sessions delving into its transformative potential across the retail sector. Industry leaders explored how AI is being used to enhance personalization, optimize supply chains, and drive operational efficiencies at scale. The Lifestyle Destinations Stage brought a fresh perspective to the convergence of retail, tourism, and urban development. Sessions focused on how retail-driven cities are evolving into vibrant lifestyle hubs, integrating entertainment, hospitality, and commerce to redefine consumer experiences. The conversations highlighted the growing role of mixed-use developments in shaping the future of retail spaces, emphasizing sustainability and cultural relevance as key factors in long-term success.Complementing the main stages’ discussions, the day’s roundtables, provided an opportunity for deeper engagement on some of the industry’s most pressing topics such as the region’s shifting retail landscape, collaboration and strategic alliances fueling retail innovation, and how businesses can capitalize on emerging opportunities in an evolving global economy.The day also saw significant commitments take shape, with key partners set to sign Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to drive future collaborations and industry advancements. Building on the momentum of Day 1, participants eagerly look ahead to Day 2, where deep dives into omnichannel strategies, leadership evolution, and the future of luxury retail will take center stage.

The Retail Summit (TRS), the leading global event shaping the future of retail, is set to make its highly anticipated debut in Saudi Arabia on January 27th and 28th, 2025 at Riyadh’s iconic King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). Over two dynamic days, the summit will offer unparalleled insights into the key opportunities, challenges and trends that are shaping the retail landscape, with expert-led sessions set to redefine the industry.With 64 global retail leaders confirmed, the summit will feature 31 sessions across 10 retail sectors, including Luxury, Health & Beauty, Apparel, Jewellery, E-commerce, Food & Beverage, Groceries, Department Stores, Franchise, and more. Attendees will benefit from 12 hours of actionable insights delivered by these speakers on 18 key topics, such as the future of luxury retail, digital-first strategies, attracting and retaining top talent, insights into Saudi Arabia’s growing retail landscape, e-commerce strategies for a booming market, and navigating shifting consumer preferences. They can look forward to thought-provoking panels, keynotes and workshops offering actionable perspectives on the most pressing topics in retail today. Luxury Brands on the Fast Track: Staying Ahead in StyleAs the luxury personal goods market is set to reach $392.40 billion by 2030, staying ahead of the curve is more crucial than ever for prestige brands. This session will delve into how luxury retailers are navigating the evolving landscape of shifting consumer behaviors, technological advancements and increasing competition. To maintain their elite status, these brands must strike a delicate balance between exclusivity, exceptional personalisation and sustainability. Leading experts from iconic brands, Carlo D’Amario, CEO and Co-Founder of Vivienne Westwood; Antony Lindsay, CEO of Fabergé; and Sergio Azzolari, CEO of Roberto Cavalli, will explore the innovative strategies luxury brands are using to engage new generations of consumers and leverage advancements while preserving their heritage and exclusivity.The Secret to Attracting and Retaining Top Talent Talent development is crucial to sustaining growth in retail, and a session led by Caroline Rush, CEO of British Fashion Council; and Andy Holmes, President of Starbucks – Al Shaya, will explore workforce strategies. The conversation will address how retail businesses can attract and retain top talent, encourage diversity and cultivate a resilient workforce shaped by the impact of Saudization. A key discussion will be ‘How to Allow Your Team to Fail, in Order to Learn and Succeed’ – an important angle for developing future leaders in retail to address.Celebrating Emerging Saudi Fashion Brands Saudi Arabia’s fashion scene is undergoing a creative renaissance, with new designers gaining global recognition. HH Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud, CEO of Al Othaim Culture and Founder of Culture House, will lead a fireside chat titled ‘Championing Fresh Saudi Fashion Brands,’ shedding light on how emerging designers are combining traditional influences with modern design and tackling the challenges of scaling their brands in an evolving market. The session will offer valuable insights into fostering creativity, expanding international visibility and leveraging local heritage.What Keeps a Retail Leader Up at Night? Retail leaders face a range of challenges in today’s fast-moving market. Alexis Mourot, CEO of Christian Louboutin; Nurtaç Afridi, CEO of Bateel; and Marcella Wartenbergh, CEO of AWWG, will share their experiences in navigating evolving consumer behaviours, managing supply chain disruptions and balancing digital investment with personal customer experiences. According to a recent report, 74% of retail CEOs are concerned about how to adapt to rapidly shifting consumer preferences—making this session a must-attend for those seeking strategies to stay ahead of the curve.E-Commerce Insights and Strategies for a Booming MarketWith global e-commerce sales expected to surpass $6.4 trillion by 2024, technology’s role in shaping the future of retail is more critical than ever. Mona Kattan, Founder and Co-Founder, Kayali Fragrances & HB Investments, will deliver a keynote session titled ‘Knowing Your Customers and Your Brand – E-Commerce Insights from a Beauty Innovator,’ discussing how beauty brands are leveraging e-commerce to create memorable online shopping experiences. Additionally, a panel ‘E-commerce Evolution: Building a Digital-First Retail Strategy’ featuring Max Bittner, CEO of Vestiaire Collective; Stefania Vardouli, CEO of Mary Katrantzou; and Rob Schilder, CEO of G-Star, will explore strategies for building a robust digital-first retail strategy that meets the demands of a rapidly changing market.The Future of Luxury Retail in Saudi Arabia As Saudi Arabia continues to attract high-net-worth individuals, luxury retail is experiencing rapid growth and transformation. Colleen Caslin, CEO of Sidney Garber; Celine Assimon, CEO of De Beers Jewellers; and Ingie Chalhoub, Founder & President of Etoile Group will examine how luxury brands can deepen connections with affluent consumers and elevate their presence in the Kingdom’s thriving luxury market.The summit will also address other vital topics, including artificial intelligence, sustainability, digital integration and the convergence of retail, hospitality and entertainment. Sessions will explore ESG goals, crafting seamless omnichannel experiences, engaging next-gen consumers and expanding into new markets.Gary Thatcher, CEO and Co-Founder of The Retail Summit, said: “We are delighted to unveil an outstanding lineup of speakers and mind-expanding sessions for our inaugural TRS Saudi. As Saudi Arabia strengthens its position as a global retail leader, this summit will provide an opportunity like no other to exchange ideas, explore growth and investment opportunities to chart the future of the retail sector.”The inaugural edition of The Retail Summit in Saudi will feature 64 visionary speakers, with 85% being CEOs. Speakers include John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group; Faysal AlMalki, CEO of AlMalki Holding; Saud Alsulaiman, CEO of Alsulaiman Group; Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council; Patrick Chalhoub, Executive Chairman of Chalhoub Group; Daniel Grieder, CEO of Hugo Boss; Mona Kattan, Founder of Kayali Fragrances & Co-Founder of HB Investments; Fahed Ghanim, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle; Massimo Basei, CCO of Pandora; Sergio Azzolari Montoldi, CEO of Roberto Cavalli; Jacques-Antoine Granjon, CEO of Veepee; Max Bittner, CEO of Vestiaire Collective; Yasser Taher, CEO of Magrabi Retail Group; Carlo D’Amario, CEO of Vivienne Westwood; and Alexis Mourot, CEO of Christian Louboutin among other leading figures. Notable brands include Adidas, Coty, eyewa, WHP Global, Christofle, American Golf, Fabergé, Rubaiyat Group, Mary Katrantzou, Fred Perry, Eleventy, and DeBeers Jewellers, among others. As Saudi Arabia emerges as a hub for innovation and growth, TRS Saudi is poised to be a key event for retail leaders, innovators and change-makers. For more information on the event, speakers, the full agenda and registration, visit retailsummitsaudi.com

Marriott International proudly announces the appointment of Nader Ibrahim as the Cluster General Manager, overseeing three hotels and two serviced apartments under the Marriott umbrella. In his new role, Nader is tasked with implementing a forward-thinking strategic vision aimed at elevating the guest experience and enhancing the working environment across the cluster.With over 20 years of experience in the global hospitality industry, Nader brings a wealth of expertise in property management, acquired through his work in luxury, award-winning hotels across the UK, USA, and the Middle East. His leadership style combines operational excellence with a people-first approach, fostering both guest satisfaction and employee engagement.Before taking on this pivotal role, Nader served as the General Manager of Assila in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Prior to that, he spent four years as the Senior Director of Operations for Marriott International, overseeing properties across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. His journey with Marriott began in 2000 in Atlanta, USA, marking the start of a career characterized by continuous growth and dedication to the hospitality industry. Over the years, Nader has participated in various management training programs, equipping him with the skills to drive innovation and excellence in all his roles.Nader’s career is further distinguished by his versatility, having held multiple roles within Marriott’s Food & Beverage division in Egypt and the UK. He has also contributed his expertise to other leading hospitality brands in the UK, where he honed his strategic and operational capabilities.Recognized for his outstanding contributions to the industry, Nader was recently awarded General Manager of the Year at the GM Awards 2024 in Saudi Arabia, a testament to his leadership and vision. Under his stewardship, several restaurants in Saudi Arabia earned accolades, including multiple awards from Timeout in 2024. “I am honored to take on this new role within Marriott International and look forward to working closely with my team to redefine the hospitality experience for our guests and associates, ” said Nader Ibrahim, Cluster General Manager of Marriott Hotels. By fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration, we aim to set new benchmarks in service and innovation.”Marriott Cluster Hotels is confident that Nader’s dynamic leadership will continue to enhance the brand’s reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry, delivering memorable experiences for guests and building a positive environment for associates.

Today, in honor of ‘International Week of Deaf People 2024,’ Pizza Hut, in collaboration with Americana Restaurants, proudly launched a first-of-its-kind restaurant in Saudi Arabia, operated by talents with hearing and speech challenges. This initiative is part of Pizza Hut’s “Opportunity4All” programme under the Brand’s mission to offer ‘an equal slice for everyone’, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s vision for 2030 to create a pathway for all individuals to reach their full potential. Rooted in the belief that everyone deserves an equal opportunity in life, the programme demonstrates Pizza Hut’s ongoing commitment to promote inclusivity and empowerment, with this unique restaurant marking the beginning of a larger plan to expand across the Kingdom and the Middle East.Celebrating the Launch: A Community-Driven EventTo mark this milestone, Pizza Hut, hosted an event featuring eminent dignitaries from Sa3ee for Rehabilitation & Employment for Disabilities, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the key leadership of Yum! Brands and Americana Restaurants. During this gathering, they spoke about the importance of the “Opportunity4All” programme, highlighting the vital role of inclusivity in creating a diverse workforce. The event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolising the official opening of the restaurant attended by the special talent from the store, their parents and caregivers, and key VIPs, further emphasising the strong support from various sectors across the Kingdom. The session was interpreted in sign language, a heartfelt testament to the programme’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity.Nurturing Local Talent and Driving CollaborationEchoing the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring the independence and integration of specially abled people in the society, Pizza Hut’s programme aims to spotlight the abilities of individuals with hearing and speech impairments. The partnership with Sa3ee, a local NGO that was instrumental in supporting the hiring and onboarding of these exceptional team members. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has endorsed the initiative, recognizing its importance towards nation building and achieving the Saudi Vision 2030. Americana’s deep-rooted presence and understanding of local markets were crucial in driving the real impact of the ‘Opportunity4All’ initiative. Focused on delivering exceptional experiences for both employees and customers, Americana swiftly upgraded its store infrastructure, training materials, and processes to ensure accessibility for individuals with special talents.”We at Americana feel deeply about our purpose of ‘Building Communities Around the Joy of Food.’ We operate six stores in Egypt entirely run by specially-abled team members, and it’s heartening to have extended that to Saudi today. We are committed to grow Americana’s community of People of Determination across our markets.” commented Amarpal Sandhu, CEO Americana Restaurants.”Launching this unique restaurant on such a significant day was a symbolic step in our journey towards inclusivity. At Pizza Hut, we believe in the power of diverse talents and are proud to celebrate the abilities of our new team members,” said Nadine El Hadad, Chief People Officer, Pizza Hut Global Franchisee Markets – Yum! BrandsMarzouk Bin Amria, Chairman of Sa3ee for Rehabilitation & Employment for Disabilities added, “This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between businesses and NGOs in driving meaningful change for individuals with disabilities. By partnering with Pizza Hut and Americana Restaurants, we are not only providing valuable employment opportunities but also setting a precedent for inclusivity in the workplace.”A Commitment to Saudi’s Vision 2030“We are proud to support initiatives like Pizza Hut’s ‘Opportunitiy4All’ programme, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 for a more inclusive and diverse workforce in Saudi Arabia, stated Fawaz alMalki, Director General of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development – Riyadh Branch. “By creating employment opportunities for people with special needs, we are taking significant steps toward fostering an environment where everyone can contribute to the Kingdom’s growth and prosperity.”Expanding Inclusivity Across the Kingdom and BeyondThe Riyadh restaurant is just the beginning, Pizza Hut and Americana Restaurants have ambitious plans to extend this programme across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, creating more opportunities for individuals with disabilities and setting a precedent for inclusivity in the region. As part of this long-term vision, Pizza Hut will continue to work closely with local organisations, and along with the support of the Government, ensuring that future stores are accessible to all.The store staff with hearing and speech impairments are supported by senior team members, all of whomhave undergone sign langage training as part of the partnership with Sa3ee.The newly opened Pizza Hut restaurant is located in Andalusian Plaza, 4034 Salman Al Farsi, Al Nahda, Riyadh and a warm welcome is extended to all, to support the Kingdom’s Sons and Daughters by allowing them the opportunity of service at the restaurant.

Wallan Trading Company, the official distributor of the French brand Renault in Saudi Arabia, unveiled the new 2025 Renault Arkana at an event held at Al Ammariyah Hills in Riyadh. The event was attended by customers and members of the media.Fahad Al-Wallan, Chairman of Wallan Holding Company, highlighted that the Renault Arkana represents a significant addition to Renault’s vehicle range in the Saudi market, with the vehicle being characterized by its modern, elegant design and innovative, practical features. He emphasized that the new tech-powered model begins its journey in the GCC markets from Saudi Arabia: a market of tremendous growth potential and of strategic importance to the Renault Group. The Arkana has undergone field tests in harsh climatic conditions, demonstrating high durability and reliability, making it well-suited to the Kingdom’s terrains, environment and the preferences of Saudi consumers.Al-Wallan also affirmed that Wallan Trading Company is committed to offering the best in automotive innovation to customers in the Kingdom, providing the latest products and advanced services to enthusiasts of the French brand in the Saudi market.Renault Arkana 2025The Arkana is Renault’s star player in the C-segment of compact crossover vehicles, with over 240,000 units sold since its European launch in October 2020 in markets across Europe, Australia, Japan, and beyond.The new Renault Arkana, unveiled today by Wallan Trading Company in the Saudi market, combines a fluid feel and imposing stance, featuring a sleek design and robust build. It boasts strong performance and fuel efficiency and includes Renault’s new identity with the new logo embedded in the grille at the center of the deep glossy black band that connects the front headlights, and on the rear trunk. The smoothly curved surface adds a sporty touch to the vehicle and enhances the elegance of the exterior design. It is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, and both the front and rear lights are LED.Inside, depending on the variant, the vehicle is equipped with heated front seats, keyless entry, push-button start, a 9.3-inch infotainment screen, an advanced 6-speaker sound system, 60:40 split-folding rear seats, as well as cruise control, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and other driver assistance and safety features.The new Arkana is available in three trims: Evolution, Techno, and Esprit Alpine, offering a broader choice for customers. The Techno and Esprit Alpine trims come standard with an advanced navigation system and Renault EASY LINK infotainment system, which also connects wirelessly to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Esprit Alpine trim features specifications that emphasize its sporty-chic character, such as the Satin Gry blade on the front bumper and the Shale Grey badge nestled in deep glossy black on the wing trim. It also includes 18-inch wheels and other features, with luxurious interior materials and distinctive colors that enhance its sporty-chic appeal.An Enjoyable Driving ExperienceThe Renault Arkana measures 4,568 mm in length and 1,820 mm in width (2,034 mm with mirrors), with a wheelbase of 2,720 mm and an empty weight of 1,349 kg. It is built on the CMF-B platform developed by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, renowned for its efficiency, driving pleasure, versatility, high capabilities, and exceptional comfort.The vehicle is powered by a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine, delivering up to 55 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 262 Nm at 2,250 rpm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, ensuring an enjoyable driving experience on Saudi roads.The Renault Arkana is available at Renault showrooms of Wallan at a price of 94,749 SAR for the Evolution trim, 112,300 SAR for the Techno trim, and 116,900 SAR for the top-of-the-line Esprit Alpine trim. Those prices include VAT and plates.

Dave’s Hot Chicken, the LA famous street food sensation known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, has expanded its presence in Riyadh with the launch of its second location on Othman Bin Affan Street. This marks a significant milestone as the new branch, which celebrated its grand opening yesterday is the first drive-thru branch for Dave’s Hot Chicken in the region. The opening follows the major success of the initial location in Tahliah St. (Al Olaya), which quickly became a popular destination for food enthusiasts, garnering rave reviews and a loyal customer base. Dave’s Hot Chicken’s new branch aims to bring its signature flavours and unique dining experience to a wider segment of the local community. The fast-casual dining restaurant will offer a variety of menu items, including bites, loaded shakes, and Dave’s slushers. Fans can also experience the seven distinct spice levels that have made Dave’s Hot Chicken a favorite among spice enthusiasts. Walid Hajj, CEO of Lavoya Group, said: “The opening of Dave’s Hot Chicken’s new branch, which is the first drive-thru branch in the region, is a major step in our strategic plan to expand our footprint in the Kingdom. We look forward to bringing our renowned chicken to even more fans and enhancing the vibrant culinary landscape of the GCC. The launch is a prominent step in enhancing the Saudi restaurant experience. It also aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes economic diversification and improved quality of life. By introducing a drive-thru service, Dave’s Hot Chicken enhances convenience for consumers, catering to the growing demand for fast-casual dining that offers quality food on the go. The new branch features a vibrant design, featuring eye-catching graffiti that creates a unique and lively atmosphere. The spacious store includes both indoor and outdoor seating options, with tables that accommodate groups of all sizes. Additionally, the inviting interior is designed to enhance the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for casual meals and gatherings. Building on this success, Dave’s Hot Chicken is set to open its second drive-thru branch on Anas Bin Malik Street in Riyadh later this year.