Italy and Saudi Creatives Join Forces at Major Design Event

Riyadh – The inaugural edition of a major international design exhibition in Riyadh brought together creators from Italy and Saudi Arabia, showcasing a growing artistic dialogue between the two countries.

The three-day event concluded at the King Abdullah Financial District under the theme “Red in Progress,” highlighting design innovation and cultural exchange.

The exhibition was inaugurated by senior cultural officials in the Kingdom, reflecting the importance placed on expanding the national design ecosystem.

Attendees included high-profile cultural leaders, representatives from Italy, and designers from both nations who emphasized collaboration and shared creative ambition.

Saudi officials noted that hosting one of the world’s leading design platforms in Riyadh marks a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s expanding creative sector.

They highlighted that the partnership aims to build a long-term design ecosystem grounded in innovation, cultural identity, and global collaboration.

Organizers from Italy emphasized that meaningful design emerges from dialogue and mutual respect between cultures with rich creative histories.

They described the growing Saudi design scene as energetic, forward-thinking, and increasingly influential on the global stage.

Participants stressed that the demand for design in Saudi Arabia is shifting toward deeper and more meaningful concepts that reflect local identity while embracing international innovation.

They said the combination of traditional elements with modern approaches is shaping a new creative language within the Kingdom.

Young designers were encouraged to study their cultural heritage, understand traditional craftsmanship, and use these foundations to create unique contributions to global design.

Speakers advised them not to imitate existing trends but to present new ideas rooted in authenticity and originality.

Sustainability emerged as a central theme throughout the event, with organizers stating that environmental responsibility is now a critical element of modern design.

Industry leaders said sustainability is no longer an optional feature but a core driver shaping the future of architecture, interiors, and product development.

The exhibition featured 38 Italian brands showcasing a wide range of furniture, interiors, materials, lighting solutions, and product innovations.

Visitors were able to explore new design concepts, technical approaches, and creative solutions presented by some of Italy’s leading design houses.

The Architecture and Design Commission introduced its national initiative, “Designed in Saudi,” which highlights emerging Saudi product designers and supports the growth of local talent.

This section of the exhibition showcased new works that combine cultural traditions with contemporary design principles.

A dedicated handicrafts pavilion curated by the Ministry of Culture highlighted the role of traditional artisans in shaping modern creative identity.

The pavilion featured “Nasaj,” an artistic piece incorporating five traditional crafts, produced in collaboration with the Royal Institute for Traditional Arts.

The cultural program accompanying the event included 13 talks and masterclasses led by international and local experts.

The sessions covered topics such as sustainable architecture, urban design, the impact of artificial intelligence on creative industries, and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

The opening keynote, titled “Shaping the Future of Design: Milan Meets Riyadh,” brought together Saudi and Italian leaders to discuss the evolving relationship between the two design communities.

Speakers highlighted the importance of cultural dialogue, innovation, and investment in talent as essential pillars for future progress.

With strong participation from both countries, the event concluded with optimism about long-term cooperation between Italy and Saudi Arabia.

Organizers confirmed plans for a follow-up edition, emphasizing that the global design community is increasingly attentive to emerging voices from the Kingdom.