Saudi Arabia Postpones Davos in the Desert Conference Until 2027 Following Houthi Attacks
Saudi Arabia postpones its flagship Future Investment Initiative until 2027 following Houthi missile and drone strikes impacting the kingdom.
POLICY WIRE — Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Organizers confirmed in a statement on Monday that Saudi Arabia has chosen to postpone its premier investment conference until next year following a wave of deadly attacks that shook the kingdom.
The annual Future Investment Initiative, frequently called Davos in the Desert, was originally planned to run from October 26-29 in Riyadh. For nearly a decade, the high-profile gathering has served as a central showcase for Saudi efforts to diversify its economy away from reliance on the energy sector.
Officials decided to delay the in-person event as Iran-backed Houthi missile and drone strikes continue to target airports and disrupt business across the country. The ongoing regional conflict has impacted confidence and logistical security, prompting planners to reschedule the summit for 2027.
The postponement deals a significant blow to one of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s most prominent initiatives aimed at attracting international capital and reshaping the nation’s financial landscape.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
