Riyadh, January 10, 2025 – Building on the success of its previous editions in London and Milan in 2024, the third edition of the Middle East Sports Investment Forum (MESIF) was held yesterday at the Ministry of Investment headquarters in Riyadh. The event, which was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport and EY, brought together key figures from the global sports investment community to discuss the future of the sports sector in the Middle East and explore the region’s growing potential as a global sports hub.
Opening the forum, Minister of Investment Eng. Khalid Al-Falih delivered a keynote address that highlighted the vital role of sports in the global economy. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is not only a roadmap for diversifying the Kingdom’s economy but also a blueprint for building a robust sports ecosystem that attracts high-quality investments, global expertise, and top-tier talent. Al-Falih pointed out that the sports sector, with its substantial growth potential, is becoming an increasingly important pillar of Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation, especially as the Kingdom adopts modern technologies to innovate and expand the sector.
One of the key moments in the minister's address was his reference to Saudi Arabia’s success in securing the 2034 FIFA World Cup, a historic achievement that underscores the Kingdom's growing influence on the global sports stage. The event's bid is seen as a testament to Saudi Arabia's ambition and its determination to become a world leader in hosting and organizing major international sporting events. Al-Falih’s remarks set the tone for a day filled with discussions on how the region can continue to capitalize on the opportunities presented by sports investment.
The forum saw the participation of over 120 global leaders, decision-makers, and sports professionals who gathered to engage in discussions about the future of sports investment in the region. The attendees explored potential growth opportunities, examined strategic partnerships, and sought innovative solutions to address challenges facing the sector. Throughout the day, the discussions centered on how the Middle East, and particularly Saudi Arabia, can foster an environment that attracts investors and nurtures the development of sports infrastructure, talent, and events.
Key topics featured in the forum's agenda included Saudi Arabia’s strategic role in hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the expanding sports investment avenues in the region, and the development of sports clubs as part of a larger national strategy. Experts also delved into the importance of regional cooperation and the role of sports in driving broader economic growth across the Middle East. Panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive dialogue sessions provided attendees with valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the sports industry, as well as the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
The forum served as an invaluable platform for fostering collaboration between investors, government officials, sports organizations, and industry leaders. By focusing on the future of sports in the Middle East, MESIF continues to play a crucial role in shaping the region’s sports investment landscape and driving forward the growth of this dynamic sector.
As Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a leading destination for global sports events and investment, MESIF has become a pivotal event in the calendar, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to becoming a global sports powerhouse by the year 2030 and beyond. The success of this year’s forum further underscores the momentum Saudi Arabia is gaining in its efforts to revolutionize the regional sports landscape and elevate its position on the world stage.