Downtown Design arrives in Riyadh

The most prestigious contemporary design fair in the Middle East will be held from May 20 to 23, 2025, in the JAX District of Riyadh. The creative district hosts cutting-edge cultural infrastructure and the Samoca museum

Chroma Meteor, Cosmic Candy by FORM - Photo © FORM
Chroma Meteor, Cosmic Candy by FORM - Photo © FORM

Downtown Design Riyadh will take place from May 20 to 23, 2025, in Riyadh‘s JAX District, a creative hub that hosts acclaimed artists, galleries, major media, creative agencies, and Samoca, the first contemporary art museum in Saudi Arabia. This venue combines state-of-the-art cultural infrastructure with the stunning backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Turaif. Organized in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s Architecture and Design Commission, the fair will offer design enthusiasts, professionals, and industry leaders direct access to original contemporary design brands and limited-edition works from around the world, along with local and regional designers and design studios.

Riyadh City Skyline - Photo © Shutterstock
Riyadh City Skyline – Photo © Shutterstock

Over a decade of operations, Downtown Design has firmly established itself as the leading contemporary and quality design fair in the Middle East and a catalyst for growth in the region’s creative scene, dedicated to both originality and contemporary works. The event is complemented by a collateral program of pop-up concepts, creative showcases, and live talks.

Downtown Design Riyadh will echo Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by offering top-notch cultural quality and will be positioned to help meet the Saudi interior design market’s demand, valued at $3.66 billion in 2024 and projected to grow to $4.63 billion by 2029.

JAX District, Riyadh - Photo © JAX District
JAX District, Riyadh – Photo © JAX District

The event will see significant participation from exhibitors who will contribute innovation and creativity to the design landscape. Among the highlights for exhibitors, Huda Lighting will present a portfolio of high-level lighting solutions and collections. Cosentino will showcase the latest innovations in sustainable surface materials, reflecting a significant commitment to ecological innovation. Natuzzi will introduce its collection of modern and cutting-edge furniture, while Iwan Maktabi will unveil a new collaboration with a local creative, highlighting emerging talent in the region. Collectional will offer a curated selection of excellence in contemporary design and limited-edition pieces, enriched by prominent international names. Additionally, Lasvit and Venini will present handcrafted and bespoke glass installations.

JAX District, Al-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site - Photo © JAX District
JAX District, Al-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site – Photo © JAX District

“The design sector of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an integral part of the country’s culture and reflects our vibrant heritage,” stated Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission.

Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, stated: “We are thrilled to launch Downtown Design Riyadh, the first high-quality contemporary design fair in Saudi Arabia. We will connect global and regional brands with design professionals and enthusiasts, contributing to amplifying the design scene in the country.”