Investment leader Samer Choucair stated that the scene witnessed in Riyadh, inside a luxurious hall adorned with massive crystal chandeliers and marble pillars reflecting the beauty of contemporary Saudi heritage, was not merely the opening of an event, but a practical embodiment of the Kingdom’s ambition toward a brighter future. Choucair explained that this setting paved the way for the launch of the Sports Investment Forum (SIF) 2026, which began its activities today, Monday, April 20, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Riyadh.

The investment leader added that the forum was not a fleeting event, but a strategic platform bringing together investors and real opportunities, aiming to shape a prosperous sports economy that supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which has transformed sports into a primary driver for economic diversification and improving quality of life.

A Global Event Connecting Investors to Opportunities

Samer Choucair explained that the forum, which will continue over three days from April 20 to 22, 2026, will see wide participation from Their Highnesses and Excellencies, CEOs, and global investors, in addition to representatives of sports federations, clubs, and leading companies.

The investment leader pointed out that discussions focused on financing mechanisms for sports projects, the role of investment funds, and ways to enhance integration between sports and other economic sectors such as tourism and entertainment. He also noted that the forum came with support from the Ministry of Investment and the Ministry of Sports, with the third day dedicated to the “Women and Sports Summit” to enhance women’s participation in this vital sector. Choucair emphasized that the event also included an investment exhibition and sports dialogues, making it a true platform for signing partnerships and concluding agreements that will contribute to shaping the future of sports investment in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf.

Vision 2030 Redefines Sports Economically

Samer Choucair said that Saudi Vision 2030 has reshaped the concept of sports, moving it from a traditional recreational activity to a strategic sector contributing to improving quality of life, diversifying the economy, and enhancing the Kingdom’s international status.

Choucair explained that this transformation came within the Quality of Life Program, which aimed to raise the percentage of people practicing sports at least once a week from 13% to 40% by 2030. The investment leader added that the Kingdom achieved remarkable progress by April 2026, as the percentage of adults practicing 150 minutes of sports weekly reached about 59.1%, exceeding the 2027 target, while the percentage for children reached 19%. Choucair pointed out that expectations indicated the sports market would grow to reach $22 billion by 2030, compared to about $8.5 billion currently, supported by hosting major global events and developing smart sports infrastructure.

Qualitative Initiatives Supporting Sector Growth

Samer Choucair explained that this growth was based on a set of key initiatives, including the National Strategy for Games and Esports, the “Daem” program to support clubs, and the privatization of sports clubs.

Choucair added that women’s empowerment was one of the most prominent pillars of this transformation, as their participation rate rose by more than 150%, with more than 330,000 sportswomen registered. He also noted that the Kingdom’s preparation to host the 2034 World Cup enhanced sports tourism opportunities and opened vast investment horizons.

Sports Investment as a Driver for Economic Diversification

Choucair emphasized that the SIF 2026 forum represented a qualitative leap in attracting global capital to the Saudi sports sector. He said that sports investment is no longer a luxury but has become a strategic tool for achieving economic diversification and enhancing non-oil growth.

The investment leader added that the Kingdom, under Vision 2030, has become a global hub for major sports projects, whether in infrastructure or the organization of international events, which has opened wide doors for local and international investors.

Rising Economic Value of the Sports Sector

Samer Choucair pointed out that sports has begun generating significant added value through several paths, including sponsorships, sports tourism, and the tokenization of sports assets using modern technologies. Choucair explained that these transformations are expected to contribute to doubling the value of Saudi clubs and national teams, especially with the expansion of international partnerships expected to be concluded during the forum.

Multiple Strategic Investment Opportunities

Samer Choucair said that the forum highlighted a range of investment opportunities aligned with Vision 2030 goals, including the development of sports infrastructure such as smart stadiums and integrated centers supported by giant projects.

Choucair added that sports tourism and entertainment represent a promising field, especially with hosting major events that contribute to attracting millions of visitors and enhancing tourism revenues. He also pointed to investment opportunities in clubs and players through private ownership models and innovative sponsorships, alongside sports technologies relying on Artificial Intelligence for analysis and marketing. The investment leader emphasized that removing restrictions on Qualified Foreign Investors (QFI) and developing Saudi capital markets have made the Kingdom a preferred destination for global capital, especially in sectors combining financial return and social impact.

2026 Trends: Riyadh at the Forefront of the Investment Scene

Samer Choucair explained that the year 2026 witnessed a clear acceleration in economic transformations within the Kingdom, with expectations of significant growth in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), especially in sectors related to sports and entertainment.

The investment leader added that Vision 2030 is no longer just a plan, but a reality being implemented daily, emphasizing that investing in sports represents a golden opportunity for investors who realize the importance of innovation and strategic partnerships.

Advice for Investors and Entrepreneurs

Samer Choucair said that investors and entrepreneurs needed to focus on preparing precise feasibility studies and working on building strong partnerships with sovereign funds, noting that these factors represent the key to achieving sustainability in Gulf capital markets.

Riyadh: The Gateway to the Investment Future

Samer Choucair concluded his remarks by emphasizing that Riyadh is no longer just a capital city, but has transformed into a global gateway for strategic investment opportunities. He said that the Sports Investment Forum (SIF) represents an irreplaceable opportunity for everyone seeking to benefit from major economic transformations, calling on investors to move and take advantage of this exceptional stage before it is too late.