Gateway to Tomorrow: How the Future Minerals Forum and BMO Are Forging a New Era in Global Mineral Investment

In the heart of **Riyadh, Saudi Arabia**, a remarkable shift is underway in the global minerals sector. The **Future Minerals Forum (FMF)**, recognized as the world’s leading platform for shaping the future of minerals, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with **BMO**, the global leader in metals and mining investment banking. This collaboration transcends borders and ambitions, setting the stage for a more interconnected and sustainable mineral investment landscape.  

With the shared vision of driving global mineral development through strategic investment promotion, FMF and BMO are poised to bring unparalleled expertise to investors seeking new opportunities. As the industry faces rapid transformation fueled by technology, demand for critical minerals, and sustainability imperatives, this partnership is positioned to ignite meaningful dialogues and create actionable pathways, unlocking value in regions such as the **MENA** and the “Super Region” — spanning Africa, Western, and Central Asia.  

Building Bridges in the Global Mineral Landscape

The partnership, a first for FMF, was hailed by Ali Al-Mutairi — FMF’s Executive Director — as a historic milestone. His words underscored the forum’s mission: to connect investors, policymakers, and industry leaders not just in the region, but globally. This step ensures that both organizations will create lasting opportunities, enhancing sustainability and innovation in mineral development projects.  

Moreover, under the inspiring theme **"Gateway to Funding"**, FMF will host exclusive elements to elevate the investor experience. From *closed-door mining investment journey sessions* led by BMO — mapping the entire mineral value chain from exploration to processing — to investor-focused presentations by major mining companies, FMF will provide attendees with rare, direct engagement with industry decision-makers.  

Riyadh 2026 – The Stage for Transformation

Scheduled from **January 13 to 15, 2026**, the Future Minerals Forum will transform Riyadh into the epicenter of global mineral investment discussions. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with innovators, financiers, and key stakeholders convening under one roof to discuss not only capital access, but also strategies for sustainable growth within the sector.  

Transitioning from previous editions, FMF 2026 will serve as a **gateway for international cooperation**. Whether it’s a regional entrepreneur looking for mining partnerships or an institutional investor seeking to diversify portfolios, the forum promises a wealth of resources, connections, and actionable insights. This carefully curated combination of high-level strategy, investor engagement, and expert knowledge sharing reflects FMF’s dedication to shaping the future of minerals.  

In a world hungry for resources but conscious of environmental impact, the FMF-BMO partnership signals a new era of collaboration — one where opportunities are abundant, sustainability is a priority, and every handshake could spark the next big chapter in mineral development.  

Interested in being part of history? [Register now for FMF 2026](https://registration.futuremineralsforum.com/e/9ee6d849-04bf-4671-837f-b32ca68b2d74/a/9ee6d849-086b-48d1-98c0-524e5a0494cf) before the gateway opens!  

Riyadh Resonance — Phoenix Contact Ignites Industrial Transformation

A Bold Entry into Saudi Arabia

Phoenix Contact is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming Industrial Transformation Exhibition, powered by Hannover Messe, taking place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. This premier event brings together global leaders in industrial automation, electrification, and digitalization to shape the future of smart manufacturing. At Hall 1, Stand 1-349, Phoenix Contact will present its latest innovations designed to empower industries across the Kingdom. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore live demonstrations, engage with technical experts, and discover how Phoenix Contact's solutions support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its industrial transformation.

Moreover, "Our presence at this exhibition reflects our long-term commitment to the region," said Fahad Alotaibi, Managing Director at Phoenix Contact Trading LLC. From modular terminal blocks to open control systems and Ethernet-based automation, our portfolio is tailored to meet the evolving needs of installers, operators, and developers in Saudi Arabia. Phoenix Contact's participation is further strengthened by the recent establishment of Phoenix Contact Trading LLC in Riyadh, a strategic move to deepen local engagement and deliver customized solutions for infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

Local Roots, Global Expertise

Phoenix Contact, a global leader in industrial automation and connectivity solutions, has established Phoenix Contact Trading LLC in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal step in its strategic expansion across the Middle East. Founded in 2024, the new entity reinforces Phoenix Contact's commitment to supporting the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its broader economic and industrial transformation. Consequently, companies across Riyadh and beyond now gain faster access to tailored automation solutions and on-the-ground expertise.

Event Details: Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center Dates: 1–3 December 2025 Opening Ceremony: December 1, 2025: 04:00 p.m. - 09:30 p.m. (Subject to change) Show Opening Hours: December 02 - 03: 01:00 p.m. - 09.30 p.m. (Subject to change) Stand: Hall 1, Stand 1-349. For more information and to register, visit Phoenix Contact Saudi Arabia. Finally, attendees should plan to visit the stand early, because hands-on demos and expert dialogue will fill each day.

Anchoring Ambitions: JBR’s Bold Expansion into Dubai's Maritime Future

Setting Sail into New Horizons

Amid a rapidly evolving M&A and corporate finance landscape, JBR is charting a bold course forward with the opening of a new office in the **United Arab Emirates (UAE)**. Nestled in the heart of **Dubai**, this strategic expansion comes through a partnership with industry veteran **Martin Helweg** of the Helweg Group. Helweg will serve as Partner of **JBR UAE**, guiding its local strategy and connecting it to global possibilities.  

This exciting move marks a new chapter in the growth of **JBR's Maritime & Offshore cluster**. As Dubai’s skyline continues to symbolize ambition and opportunity, its position as a global maritime hub becomes increasingly vital. The UAE is now a bridge between East and West, making it the perfect anchor for JBR’s expansion. With the Dubai office, JBR strengthens its global presence while positioning itself to serve clients at the forefront of maritime trade, offshore operations, and sustainable energy investments. 

Building Bridges Across Oceans

“Many of our clients are turning their focus to the Middle East and Asia,” says **Ronald van Rijn**, Managing Partner of JBR. This observation reflects a growing shift in global business dynamics. At the same time, interest from these regions towards Europe creates a strong flow of opportunities in both directions. By establishing its Dubai office, JBR is cementing itself as a trusted advisor capable of navigating these cross-market currents.  

Rick ter Maat, Partner and Head of the Maritime & Offshore cluster, emphasizes the rapid evolution of the M&A market in the region. JBR’s team is already advising on significant transactions such as the successful process between **Seacontractors** and **Jifmar**. Operating from Dubai allows JBR to offer local expertise on strategic decisions, mergers and acquisitions, and vessel financing — all while forging fresh partnerships in the region’s vibrant maritime sector.  

A Wave of Global Collaboration

Martin Helweg sees the Dubai expansion as more than a physical move; it’s a powerful step toward sustainable value creation in an ever-changing world. By blending JBR’s international experience with deep-rooted maritime insights, the UAE office becomes an epicenter of innovation.  

Furthermore, the Dubai team will work closely with JBR’s Netherlands and Belgium offices. This combination of headquarters-led expertise and on-the-ground presence ensures a seamless connection across continents. Several colleagues will relocate to Dubai to strengthen collaboration, ensuring that clients across Maritime & Offshore and Ports & Terminals feel the full impact of JBR’s commitment. 

With its bold leap into Dubai, JBR is not just opening a new office — it’s opening doors to limitless maritime and offshore opportunities. This move signals resilience, foresight, and a commitment to creating sustainable value worldwide.