Reflect Festival amplified its efforts to build bridges between exciting emerging markets with a brand new event: Reflect Pop-Up Riyadh. Promising companies and top investors from Eastern and Southern Europe were introduced to the Saudi ecosystem last week, with the program facilitating new business opportunities and painting an authentic picture of the region’s potential.

Innovators from Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East gathered at The Garage, the largest startup district in the Middle East. The day was filled with insightful presentations, unique networking opportunities, and a buzzing atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the Reflect Festival.

The event kicked off with an opening dinner at Takya Restaurant in Diriyah, accompanied by the Founders of Reflect Festival, the Ambassador of the Slovak Republic, the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus, and representatives from the Saudi Ministry of Investment. Participants discussed their views on innovation while indulging in traditional Islamic cuisine.

The event's main highlight was the 30 speakers who shared their innovative ideas and insights into the entrepreneurial and startup ecosystem. The impressive lineup included renowned names such as Yuri Gurski, Arthur Mamedov, Emon Shakoor, Waleed A. Alballaa, Amal Dokhan, Serhei Kostevitch, and Salah Khashoggi. The presentations concluded with a pitch segment, where eleven startups shared their stories, taking all attendees on a journey of innovation, fresh ideas, and strategies for success.

The Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted a charming cocktail soirée, serving as the perfect closing for the event. Here, the exchange of takeaways and inspiration for new ideas continued in a cosy ambience.

All in all, Reflect Pop-Up Riyadh was a celebration of the new and dynamic, planting the seeds for further collaboration between the regions.

This mission will continue at the upcoming Reflect Festival, hosted by Kolla in Limassol on the 30th and 31st of May.