Saudi Arabia postpones ‘Davos in the Desert’ until 2027, saying the delay will help its 10th edition deliver its expected scale and impact

Saudi Arabia has postponed its annual Future Investment Initiative conference, informally known as “Davos in the Desert,” until 2027. An official statement said the event, scheduled for October 26–29, was delayed to ensure its milestone 10th edition delivers its expected scale and impact. FII Institute CEO Dr. Maha bint Mishari Al Saud said the decision reflected a deep commitment to the event’s partners, members, speakers and delegates.

The postponement comes amid an escalation of deadly strikes by Iran-backed Houthis against the kingdom. As fighting between the Saudi-led coalition and the Houthis intensifies, government agencies in Riyadh have instructed staff to work remotely.

AFP reported that Houthi attacks on military, energy and civilian infrastructure, including Riyadh’s international airport, have killed at least 18 people and injured hundreds. The Kingdom Centre, which houses the IMF regional office, and companies in the King Abdullah Financial District have also told employees to stay away until further notice as the capital faces repeated attacks.

The state-backed conference highlights Saudi Arabia’s plans for economic transformation away from hydrocarbons. Prominent speakers previously lined up for the event included top executives from Alphabet and Google, Goldman Sachs and BlackRock.