Riyadh: Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary announced the launch of LIONS Riyadh, a specialized regional festival within the global LIONS network for creative marketing effectiveness, organized by Tahaluf in partnership with the Ministry of Media and the global LIONS network. The festival will be held from December 6 to 8, 2027, at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh, bringing together chief marketing officers, creative leaders, agencies, brands, and emerging talent from the region and around the world. According to Saudi Press Agency, the festival's program will cover creative excellence, effectiveness, culture, and the sector's future, providing Middle Eastern talent, ideas, and storytelling a platform to shape the global creative conversation. Minister Al-Dossary emphasized the deep roots of creativity and storytelling in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, highlighting the new generation's role in shaping the future of this legacy. LIONS Riyadh is seen as a reflection of progress in Saudi Arabia's creative industries and its commitment to nurturing talent and ideas. The festival aims to support the growth of the Kingdom's creative economy by attracting international expertise and talent. It will facilitate knowledge transfer, develop national capabilities, and open new avenues for investment, partnerships, and high-quality jobs. The event will also empower Saudi creatives by connecting them with international networks and markets, supporting the localization of creative industries, and contributing to the diversification of the national economy. Additionally, it aims to position Riyadh as a creative capital and global destination for decision-making and opportunities. Co-Chairman of the Board of Tahaluf, Faisal bin Saud Al-Khamisi, expressed pride in contributing to bringing the LIONS network to Riyadh. He noted Saudi Arabia's rapid establishment as a leading destination for major international events, reflecting the Kingdom's growing international standing and the creative potential of the Arab world. LIONS Chair Philip Thomas highlighted the Middle East's entry into a new creative era, driven by a young, fast-growing population. He emphasized the importance of creativity and marketing in global expression, noting that LIONS Riyadh will open access to global benchmarks, insights, and learning, connecting regional talent with global expertise. LIONS Riyadh is part of a series of regional platforms that complement Cannes Lions by extending the LIONS network's expertise throughout the year. In the Middle East, Dubai Lynx remains the established awards platform for the MENA region, while LIONS Riyadh is designed to complement both Cannes Lions and Dubai Lynx, fostering regional talent and ideas. Further details on the festival, including its program, speakers, and participating brands, will be announced in the coming months. Tahaluf, headquartered in Riyadh, is a joint venture between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for SAFCSP, and the Events Investment Fund (EIF), bringing together business c ommunities from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, and around the world.
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