RX, the global leader in events and exhibitions and the organizer of the world-renowned MIPIM, has announced the launch of MIPIM Middle East, taking place on 20–21 October 2026 at the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh.
This strategic new event aspires to become a major global and regional investment hub, bringing together international investors, policymakers, developers, and key Middle Eastern stakeholders.
A New Catalyst for Global and Regional Investment
MIPIM Middle East aims to harness the exceptional growth of the real estate sector in the region.
The event will gather global capital and connect it with major government decision-makers and developers, supporting the realization of large-scale urban, infrastructure, and development projects across the Middle East.
The choice of Riyadh reflects the city’s growing status as a regional center for investment, innovation, and large-scale urban transformation — all central pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
A Natural Expansion of the MIPIM Global Platform
Often referred to as the global urban festival, MIPIM is the leading international real estate event.
Each year in Cannes, it brings together over 20,000 delegates from more than 100 countries, including heads of state, ministers, mayors of major cities, and top-level industry executives.
Alongside its flagship event in Cannes, the brand has expanded with MIPIM Asia in Hong Kong.
The launch of MIPIM Middle East marks its second major regional event outside Europe, further strengthening the global presence of the MIPIM ecosystem.
A Region Experiencing Unprecedented Growth
In recent years, delegations from the Middle East at MIPIM have expanded significantly.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Egypt have showcased some of the world’s most ambitious real estate and infrastructure megaprojects, attracting increasing interest from international investors.
While many of these projects have historically been funded by local capital, the region is now opening up to greater levels of foreign direct investment, creating a crucial need for a platform that can facilitate these connections — a role MIPIM Middle East will fulfil.
A High-Impact Programme Focused on Deals, Insights, and Networking
MIPIM Middle East will feature a curated programme centered around the key issues shaping the region’s real estate landscape, including:
- Sustainable urban development
- Unlocking investment opportunities
- The role of innovation and artificial intelligence
- The impact of sport and major events on urban planning
The event will include keynote speeches, closed-door forums, strategic discussions, and premium networking sessions designed to connect policymakers, developers, investors, advisors, and brokers.
Clear Strategic Ambitions
Vasyl Zhygalo, RX Managing Director for the Middle East and Emerging Markets, commented:
“Launching MIPIM Middle East in Riyadh aligns with the tremendous potential for real estate investment in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region. Building on our flagship events in Cannes and Hong Kong, MIPIM Middle East strengthens our ambition to create a global, year-round platform for the real estate community, investors, and policymakers.”
Nicolas Boffi, MIPIM Director, added:
“By bringing MIPIM to the Middle East, we are connecting global capital and expertise with one of the fastest-growing regions in the world. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has shown how central real estate is to national growth. Our goal is for MIPIM Middle East to become a strategic platform supporting this transformation across the entire region.”
A Landmark Event for the Future of the Gulf
At a time when Gulf countries are preparing for a major real estate boom and managing vast investment portfolios, the launch of MIPIM Middle East comes at the perfect moment.
The event will support the mission of connecting public- and private-sector leaders to accelerate the projects that will shape the future of cities across the region.
MIPIM Middle East is poised to become a key annual meeting place for global stakeholders seeking opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa.
