RLC Forum 2026: Riyadh to Host Over 2,000 Global Leaders Under "Growth Crossroads" Theme
The 2026 RLC Global Forum is scheduled to take place in Riyadh on February 3–4, 2026, with a central theme of "Growth Crossroads." This significant event aims to highlight transformations in global trade, retail, and leadership. Key partnerships for the forum have been established with prominent organizations including Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company.
The forum is poised to bring together over 2,000 global leaders from more than 40 countries, fostering substantial international collaboration and dialogue. Notable figures such as Panos Linardos, Alison Rehill-Erguven, and Dr. Bander Hamooh have played key roles in the organization of this event.
Panos Linardos, Chairman of the RLC Global Forum, stated, "In a world that’s being rewired, the pursuit of growth has never been more strategic. By selecting Riyadh once again, we are placing the Forum at the center of a region driving new forms of growth and exploring how these emerging hubs connect with established markets to shape the future of retail and trade."
Saudi Vision 2030 Gains Momentum Through RLC Forum Partnerships
Industry officials recognize the strategic importance of the RLC Global Forum in advancing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The forum's established partnerships are intended to propel regional growth and enhance key sectors such as retail, fintech, and digital transformation. While these areas are focal points, the forum does not specifically concentrate on crypto assets or DeFi protocols.
The significant institutional involvement suggests potential financial implications, although specific funding figures have not been disclosed. The collaborative efforts with Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company underscore a strong level of institutional commitment towards the Kingdom's economic and digital objectives.
Success of Previous Forums Sets the Stage for Retail Innovation in 2026
The success of the 2025 forum, which successfully convened over 2,000 leaders from 42 countries, resulted in tangible advancements in commerce and technology. While past forums have demonstrably influenced regional policy, they have not directly impacted cryptocurrency markets or DeFi protocols.
Experts anticipate that the 2026 RLC forum will primarily focus on driving retail innovation rather than directly influencing cryptocurrency assets. Potential areas of discussion may include tokenized retail advancements, though no specific involvement of crypto assets has been confirmed in the official accounts of the event.