Biban 2025: Riyadh’s Grand Stage for Global Opportunities

In the heart of **RIYADH, Saudi Arabia**, the future of entrepreneurship came alive at the **Biban Forum 2025** — a spectacular four-day celebration of innovation, ambition, and global collaboration. From **November 5 to 8**, the **Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center** became the epicenter of ideas, where entrepreneurs, startups, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) inspired the world under the theme *“Global Destination for Opportunities.”*  

With more than **100,000 participants from 113 countries**, the forum was not just an event, but a vibrant marketplace of dreams. Agreements totaling over **USD 10.1 billion** were signed, setting the stage for lasting partnerships and groundbreaking ventures. It was clear: Saudi Arabia is no longer emerging — it is leading the charge as a hub for entrepreneurial brilliance.  

Inspiring Minds, Transforming Ideas

The **Biban Forum 2025** was a masterclass in inspiration. Legendary football figure **Ricardo Kaká**, now an entrepreneur and investor, shared his journey of turning passion into purpose. His words encouraged attendees to pursue not just profits, but impact. Meanwhile, **Simon Squibb**, a celebrated serial entrepreneur, reminded the audience that innovation thrives where courage meets opportunity.  

Through captivating keynote sessions and thought-provoking panel discussions, participants uncovered new perspectives on investing in innovation, building ventures that foster sustainable growth, and driving social change. This was more than theory — it was a call to action for every piece of talent present.

Opportunity Awaits: From Pitch to Partnership

Transitioning from inspiration to action, **Biban Forum 2025** offered unmatched networking and business-building opportunities. The **Startup Door** welcomed **1,021 startups from 66 countries**, each presenting cutting-edge ideas to potential investors. It was a melting pot of creativity and ambition, with every handshake holding the potential for transformation.  

Meanwhile, the **Investors Arena** became a dynamic meeting point, where innovators pitched visions that could redefine industries. The **Pitching Stage** gave startups a global spotlight, allowing them to stand before world-class investors and share big ideas with even bigger potential. And for the competitive spirits, the **Entrepreneurship World Cup Global Finals** crowned “Swijin AG” as the ultimate champion, securing **USD 1.5 million** and worldwide recognition. 

Saudi Arabia’s Bright Horizon

As the forum concluded, the results were nothing short of remarkable — from billion-dollar agreements to global collaborations and knowledge exchanges that will echo into the future. **Biban Forum 2025** has fortified Saudi Arabia’s stance as a *true global destination for opportunities*, setting the tone for a new era of innovation, where bold ideas meet transformative investment.  

The spirit of Biban lives on — in every venture born, every partnership forged, and every entrepreneur inspired to dream bigger. Saudi Arabia’s entrepreneurial stage is set, and the world is ready to watch the next act unfold. 

Anytime Fitness Lifts Off in Riyadh — A New Chapter for Saudi Wellness

A New Fitness Era in Riyadh

Riyadh is preparing to welcome a fresh wave of accessible fitness as Anytime Fitness partners with ABFit to expand across the Kingdom. This development arrives at a pivotal moment, as Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizes healthier lifestyles and improved quality of life. Consequently, residents can expect more options for coaching, nutrition, and recovery in the coming years.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Purpose Brands LLC is pleased to announce that Anytime Fitness, the world's largest fitness club and personalized coaching experience brand, has announced its latest master franchise agreement with ABFit, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The announcement arrives as the Kingdom continues to pursue its Saudi Vision 2030 for improving the quality of life and promoting the health of all its citizens and residents.

"We are thrilled to bring the Anytime Fitness brand to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Raed Alarabi Alharthi, investor partner and general manager, ABFit. "Health and fitness are key components of The Saudi Vision 2030 goals, and we are proud to make this investment and expand access to fitness services across the Kingdom."

What This Means for Communities and Growth

First, the rollout will begin with a flagship club in spring 2026, and then scale rapidly; at least 60 clubs will open over the next six years, offering both women's and men's branches across multiple cities. Thus, community access to personalized fitness programs will increase, and local employment opportunities in the wellness sector will follow.

Moreover, leaders note that government initiatives support this momentum. "There has never been a better time than now to welcome the Anytime Fitness brand to the Kingdom," said Asem Abu Eisheh, CEO, Anytime Fitness Saudi Arabia. "The Ministry of Health offers numerous nutrition and physical activity initiatives to support healthy lifestyles; the Ministry of Sports works to increase the percentage of individuals who engage in regular physical activity; and the Ministry of Investment encourages investments in the fitness sector, creating an attractive environment that supports sustainable growth."

Global Reach, Local Impact

Furthermore, Anytime Fitness will now operate in 49 countries and territories, strengthening Purpose Brands’ presence alongside Orangetheory Fitness. Consequently, Saudis will gain access to a global network of best practices in coaching and wellness, benefiting from innovations tested worldwide.

Finally, leaders from both Anytime Fitness and Purpose Brands emphasize mutual confidence and long-term vision. "As we move with intention to expand the ways Anytime Fitness helps people with their personal health and wellness journeys, this agreement with ABFit and the vote of confidence from the Kingdom is something we deeply respect," said Stacy Anderson, global president, Anytime Fitness. Therefore, this partnership signals both economic investment and a meaningful step toward healthier communities across Saudi Arabia.

Madinah’s Hospitality Horizon: How a New Partnership Is Transforming Short-Term Stays

A Bold Step Toward a New Residential Era in Madinah  

Madinah, Saudi Arabia, is stepping into a new chapter of urban living as **Knowledge Economic City (KEC)**, the pioneering publicly listed developer shaping the city’s transformation, announces a **landmark joint-venture agreement** with *Maison Prive Holiday Homes Rental L.L.C.*. This strategic alliance creates a company dedicated to short-term residential rental (STR) management, setting a new standard for elegance and efficiency in accommodation.  

From pilgrims seeking comfort near sacred sites to business travelers desiring convenience and style, this initiative will offer an experience beyond the ordinary. The STR management platform will not only provide fully furnished residences but also deliver a seamless guest journey—from smooth online booking to personalized concierge, wellness services, and curated travel coordination.  

Transitioning from vision to reality, this partnership captures the heartbeat of modern tourism in Madinah while respecting its deep cultural heritage. It is more than a real estate project; it’s a hospitality evolution.  

Introducing Al Alyaa – A City Within a City  

The first gem in this venture’s crown is **Al Alyaa**, KEC’s flagship mixed-use community. This 226,000-square-meter development blends human-centered design with serene, landscaped gardens, vibrant retail spaces, and inspiring hospitality hubs. Its 1,490 residential units and 70,000 square meters of greenery create a sanctuary that fosters both community and comfort.  

But Al Alyaa isn’t just about serene living—it’s also about smart investment. Through the unified hospitality and property-management model, homeowners gain more than a residence; they gain a financial opportunity. Flexible ownership and STR potential mean properties can serve as private retreats or income-generating assets, adapting effortlessly to market demand.  

Maison Privee’s Grand Entry into Saudi Arabia  

For Maison Privee, this partnership signals a powerful entry into the **Saudi market**. Managing Director Paul Mallee highlights their vision: a centralized management platform designed to maximize yields for investors while granting them unparalleled control. With the growing demand for flexible short- and long-stay options in Madinah, owners can now switch rental models at will—ensuring adaptability and profitability.  

Ultimately, this joint venture is not just shaping buildings; it’s shaping lifestyles. In blending **Madinah’s timeless charm** with cutting-edge hospitality solutions, KEC and Maison Privee are reimagining what it means to stay, live, and invest in one of the world’s most revered cities.