More than 4,500 guests enjoy the luxury goods and services on display in the opulent Ritz-Carlton ballrooms. The inaugural American Express World Luxury Expo, organized by World Luxury Group & Nayyara Exhibitions in association with The Saudi Investment Bank, that was held at the palatial Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh recently 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 $660,000. At the entrance to one of the ballrooms, two gold plated Samurai Edo period armors from the 17th century stood guard, as well as a Chinese emperor's bed from the Forbidden City. Unique Islamic artifacts from the first Hijri century to the 10th century and silk beaded bed sheets from the Ottoman Empire were just some of the magnificent artifacts and antiques on display. Graham Cooke, President of 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.” Sami El Natour, Chief Marketing Officer, American Express Saudi Arabia Limited, said “as title sponsor of The American Express World Luxury Expo, Riyadh, we are proud to have played a key role in the success of this highly prestigious event. During the course of the three-day event, more than 4,500 guests enjoyed the luxury goods and services on display in the opulent Ritz-Carlton ballrooms. The Expo also provided us with the opportunity to deliver unique and exclusive benefits to our card members and other attendees, and their feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.” Samer R. Al-Rayan, Group Head of Sales, Marketing and Public Relations at The Saudi Investment Bank, said “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 personalized relationships and striving for excellence.” Karim Elayan of Godiva Chocolatier KSA, said “as creators of delicious gourmet chocolates, truffles and treats for 80 years, Godiva is proud to have been a gold sponsor for the event. As Godiva is shortly opening its first boutique in Riyadh, the Expo provided the ideal opportunity to promote the love of chocolate to the many chocolate aficionados who attended the Expo.” – SG
