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Riyadh is once again stepping into the global spotlight as it hosts the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative, under the inspiring theme “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth.” 

From Oct. 27 to 30, the Saudi capital will become a crossroads for global dialogue, innovation, and investment, welcoming more than 8,000 participants, including 20 heads of state, over 600 renowned speakers, and a vibrant lineup of 250 thought-provoking sessions.

This year’s FII9 focuses on unlocking new ideas for sustainable global growth by uniting leaders, investors, and innovators to chart a collective path toward a more prosperous future. The program has been thoughtfully designed around three foundational pillars—Think, Xchange, and Act—which together embody the Institute’s mission: transforming insight into collaboration, and collaboration into tangible action. Through these pillars, the conference aims to offer a roadmap for addressing some of the most pressing global challenges while shaping the next era of investment, innovation, and policymaking.

While the World Economic Forum in Davos has long served as the epicenter of global economic dialogue since 1971, the Future Investment Initiative—often dubbed “Davos in the Desert”—has swiftly emerged as its dynamic counterpart on the world stage since its inception in 2017. In less than a decade, FII has evolved into a distinctive platform that not only convenes global leaders and investors but also drives forward-looking, actionable investment strategies designed to achieve sustainable development and meaningful impact on humanity.

Building on the legacy of its previous editions, FII9 continues to advance the institute’s founding vision. Over the past eight gatherings, the FII has gained worldwide recognition for its mission to serve humanity through innovation and collaboration. The conference has become a premier forum for addressing complex global challenges — from harnessing artificial intelligence responsibly to advancing healthcare, education, and climate solutions — while promoting investment opportunities that deliver long-term, sustainable growth.

Ultimately, FII9 represents more than just another global forum—it is a catalyst for change, transforming bold ideas into action and translating ambition into measurable outcomes

Talat Zaki Hafiz

This year’s edition is expected to see the signing of business deals exceeding $60 billion, adding to the more than $200 billion in agreements secured during previous FIIs. These investments, spanning multiple sectors, will fuel initiatives that generate positive impact both within �������� and across the world—especially in areas focused on improving quality of life and fostering global progress.

FII9 also reinforces Riyadh’s position as a global hub for innovation, investment, and international collaboration, aligning seamlessly with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030 and the FII Institute’s mission to drive sustainable, long-term transformation. 

What began as an annual gathering to spark global dialogue has evolved into a year-round movement. Recognizing that the momentum of ideas must be sustained beyond the conference halls, the FII Institute has grown into a next-generation global nonprofit foundation with an investment arm devoted to turning vision into lasting, real-world impact.

Ultimately, FII9 represents more than just another global forum—it is a catalyst for change, transforming bold ideas into action and translating ambition into measurable outcomes. Through its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, the FII Institute is redefining the future of global prosperity—ensuring that the benefits of progress extend to all of humanity.

• Talat Zaki Hafiz is an economist and financial analyst. X: @Talathafiz