The first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh prepares to open its doors from May 20–23, 2025, at JAX District.
Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Architecture and Design Commission under the Ministry of Culture, the event will spotlight original, high-quality contemporary design from Saudi Arabia and around the world. The fair marks a major step in strengthening the Kingdom’s growing position on the global design map.
What is Downtown Design Riyadh?
Downtown Design Riyadh is Saudi Arabia’s first contemporary design fair, created to connect interior professionals, architects, creatives, and design lovers with some of the most innovative names in the industry. This platform responds to the rising demand for high-end interiors across Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing real estate and development sectors.
“Saudi Arabia’s design sector is witnessing significant and accelerated growth and we are committed to supporting this progress by showcasing local creative excellence and attracting leading international design exhibitions,” said Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission.
“Downtown Design Riyadh, with its thoughtfully curated programme and blend of local and global expertise, reflects our vision to build a dynamic design community that embodies the Kingdom’s rich and diverse cultural identity.”
1. Strong Local and Global Exhibitor Line-up
From architectural lighting to modern Scandinavian furniture and bold brass pieces, the exhibitor list includes:
- Huda Lighting, bringing 10 global lighting brands including Tom Dixon, Brokis, and Articolo.
- The Bowery Company, showcasing Scandinavian design from GUBI, Audo Copenhagen, and &Tradition.
- Scarlet Splendour, debuting in the region with statement brass pieces by Richard Hutten.
- Maison Louis Drucker, launching a digital design collaboration with TRAME and Aranda\Lasch.
- Babnimnim Studio will present an architectural installation for Cosentino, blending heritage with innovation.
- Jotun will stage a unique, experiential color exhibition in collaboration with local designers.
- Saudi-based Teeb Made and the Designed in Saudi initiative will spotlight culturally rooted design and the Kingdom’s industrial design sector.
2. Rare and Limited-Edition Design on Display
A dedicated section will feature collectible and limited-edition pieces by top-tier names:
- Gallery COLLECTIONAL will exhibit handcrafted works by Christophe Delcourt, sculptural lighting by Apparatus Studio, and vintage-inspired designs by Draga & Aurel.
- Aequo Gallery, debuting in the Middle East, will showcase Dutch designer Linde Freya Tangelder’s collaboration with Indian artisan Jeevaram Suthar.
- Venini, Visionnaire, and Serafini will present Italian fine glass and furniture with exceptional craftsmanship.
3. Immersive Design Installations and Experiences
A standout feature is Strata, a modular outdoor installation by Karim+Elias, crafted using rammed earth from Saudi sand. The piece reflects sustainable design rooted in local materials while embracing a contemporary vision.
4. Cultural Talks, Pop-ups, and Creative Food Concepts
Throughout JAX District, visitors can explore a curated line-up of talks, panel discussions, pop-up exhibits, and food concepts. It’s a vibrant meeting point for industry professionals, creatives, and design enthusiasts to network and engage with new ideas.
5. Backed by Vision 2030 and Growing Deman
The fair aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, promoting cultural innovation and helping position the Kingdom as a leading design destination. With rapid real estate development and mega-projects reshaping the country, the demand for original, high-end design has never been higher.
“Our first edition of Downtown Design Riyadh will present a selection of some of the most innovative and sought-after names of the international design scene, alongside emerging designers and creatives from around the Middle East,” said Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design.
“With the rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia’s design market, we are seeing increasing interest from across the world. Downtown Design Riyadh will create a new annual meeting point, in one immersive setting.”
Additional Information
Book your tickets: click on the link to buy your tickets to Downtown Design Riyadh.
Timings:
Tuesday, 20 May
Preview day (Invite only)
Wednesday, 21 May
2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Last entry)
Thursday, 22 May
4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last entry)
Friday, 23 May
4:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Last entry)
Location: Jax 01, Muhammad Ibn Rashid Al Uraini St, Al Diriyah Al Jadidah.
What else is happening in Riyadh?
If you’re a fan of art and want to explore more of it in Riyadh, you’re in luck, Diriyah is hosting the Maknana Exhibition this year and you can read all about it here.
