How does Cityscape Global 2024 align with and support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, particularly when it comes to real estate and urban development?
Saudi Arabia is emerging as a pivotal market in the global economy driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 agenda. The Kingdom’s strategic location, robust infrastructure development, and significant investment in mega-projects offer unparalleled opportunities. These initiatives are transforming Saudi Arabia’s urban landscape and opening up new avenues for growth in sectors like tourism, entertainment, and housing.

Sustainability is an important focal point in the real estate scene. As a leading real estate event in the region, can you share examples of eco-friendly projects or exhibitors?
Sustainability has become a central focus not only for the entire real estate industry but for us, too. By fostering discussions on sustainable practices and presenting cutting-edge solutions, Cityscape Global plays a crucial role in advancing the global real estate industry’s commitment to sustainability.
We have so many exhibitors committed to sustainability it’s impossible to name them all. However, the real estate sector is increasingly implementing practices that prioritize environmental stewardship, energy efficiency, and sustainable urban development.

Cityscape Global is also an essential networking platform and launchpad of vital partnerships. Last year, the event saw $30 billion in deals during the event. What do you think helped achieve this success, and how do you plan to continue it in 2024?
In 2023, we witnessed $30 billion in deals announced across numerous significant projects, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments that are set to transform the Saudi skyline. By hosting Cityscape Global in Saudi Arabia, we’ve created an ideal platform for industry leaders and decision-makers to connect in a location that is not only geographically central but also economically dynamic.

What new features and innovations can we expect at Cityscape Global 2024?
This year, we are increasing the world-class speaker faculty. We’re also adding two new halls and four new features.
A new Stadiums & Mega Events conference will cover four days of internationally renowned speakers focusing on stadium development in the Kingdom, including three stadiums under construction and eight planned new builds for the World Cup 2034. The Student Competition is a new addition that aims to empower the next generation of industry leaders. Meanwhile, our Future Build section will acquaint the youth with construction technology.

How do you see AI, IoT, and other advanced technologies shaping the future of real estate in Saudi Arabia, and how is Cityscape Global 2024 highlighting these trends?
Emerging technologies are shaking up the real estate world. Extended reality and AI are changing how buildings are designed, creating detailed, lifelike renders. In construction, robotics and AI are making things faster and more efficient by reducing material waste and automating tasks. Smart buildings are now a reality thanks to IoT, which captures real-time data, and when it’s combined with AI, it boosts efficiency, security, and maintenance. AI is also changing how we invest in real estate by offering deep insights into market trends and property values.

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