The inaugural American Express World Luxury Expo, Riyadh, a resounding success

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 armours 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.

Mr 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 cardmembers 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, 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."

Karim Elayan of Godiva Chocolatier KSA, commented "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."

NasJet used the event to launch a new private jet services titled 'World of experiences'. The Honeymoon JetCard represented the ultimate wedding gift, offering newlyweds the opportunity to jet across the world using a seamless package service including flights, accommodation and unique experiences. Hardy Sohanpal, Head of Marketing for NasJet, said "Since we are already working with a number of leading international premier brands, we felt this event represented the ideal platform to launch our 'World of Experiences collection'."

Charles Maaraoui, Vice President of Sea Pros, said "I would like to congratulate the World Luxury Group and Nayyara teams for a very well organized event, and the excellent venue that perfectly matched the exclusive products on display."

Dr. Abdurrahman Al-Muhrij, a visitor to the event, commented, "I would like to take the opportunity to thank the organizers for such a wonderful and professional exhibition. We truly were indulged in your salubrious hospitality on offer and I look forward to attending next year's event."

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.