RIYADH: The inaugural Cultural Investment Conference opens in Riyadh, with multisectoral representatives from arts practitioners, government officials, investors to diplomats gathering for high-level discussions on culture as a strategic investment.
The two-day event, held under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, “explores bold financing models, strategic partnerships, and the evolving role of cultural capital in driving economic growth, national identity, and global influence,” according to the conference website.
Among the key themes to be discussed include new investment opportunities, emerging markets and untapped sectors in the cultural economy, the RoI of culture, financing the future of culture, artificial intelligence and culture, boosting investor confidence and creative entrepreneurship.
Saudi Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, during the opening high-level session, said that the Kingdom today hosts over 50,000 investors, both local and international.
Around 1,700 international investors are engaged in the Kingdom’s culture sector, including creative industries, arts, events, and entertainment, he said.
