World Luxury Group president Graham Cooke welcomes delegates to the event

The inaugural American Express World Luxury Expo, organised by World Luxury Group & Nayyara Exhibitions in association with The Saudi Investment Bank, has been hailed an outstanding success.

The event was held at the palatial Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh earlier this month and has been lauded by exhibitors and guests alike as a “highly successful” inaugural event.

One of the many highlights was the opportunity to view a Rolls-Royce Phantom Aviator - one of only 35 made – valued at over USD660,000.

At the entrance to one of the ballrooms, two gold plated Samurai Edo period armours from the 17th century stood guard, as well as a Chinese emperor’s bed from the Forbidden City.

Unique Islamic artefacts from the first Hijri century to the 10th century and silk beaded bed sheets from the Ottoman Empire were just some of the magnificent artefacts and antiques on display.

Graham Cooke, president, World Luxury Group, said: “The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh was the perfect venue to host the event, being one of the grandest palace hotels in the world, and our partners, Nayyara Exhibitions, boast a first-class management team with whom we were proud to work.”

The American Express World Luxury Expo, Riyadh, in association with The Saudi Investment Bank, follows the Dubai event held in January at the Burj Al Arab and continues to Abu Dhabi and Doha later this year, creating an annual signature series of events in all four cities.

Samer Al-Rayan, group head of sales, marketing and public relations, Saudi Investment Bank, commented: “As an associate sponsor, the Saudi Investment Bank is very proud to support this exciting event.

“By offering guests a unique opportunity to view some of the world’s leading luxury brands in a luxurious setting, the event ideally compliments our commitment to creating personalised relationships and striving for excellence.”