Athar – Saudi Festival of Creativity has extended the final deadline for its speakers applications, now accepting submissions until 23 May 2025. The festival, which returns for its third edition from 21–22 October 2025 at JAX District – Diriyah Biennale Foundation in Riyadh, invites local and international voices from across the creative marketing industry to take the stage. Proposals can be submitted via the festival’s website.
Presented by Motivate Media Group and TRACCS, Athar Festival 2025 is set to build on the momentum of previous editions with a larger venue, broader content streams, and a sharpened focus on global collaboration. This year’s edition is expected to host more than 3,000 attendees from across the marketing, advertising, media and communications industries – spanning brands, agencies, creative professionals and students.
Positioned as a platform to showcase Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a regional and global creative force, Athar Festival 2025 will feature more than 150 speakers, more than 80 brand activations, and expanded programming across three content stages. The event also introduces new additions aimed at enriching the attendee experience, including an all-new Talent Hub for emerging professionals, a dedicated startup exhibition space, and longer festival hours from 10 AM to 10 PM each day.
“As Saudi Arabia continues to push the boundaries of creative excellence in alignment with Vision 2030, Athar Festival remains a vital force in shaping the industry’s future,” said Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival and Managing Partner of Motivate Media Group. “This year, we are expanding our global reach with international trade delegations and industry leaders. By connecting Saudi Arabia’s creative industry with more markets, the festival will not only showcase the Kingdom as a talent hub but also create new pathways for collaboration and investment in the region’s growing creative economy.”
Building on the success of the 2024 edition, which drew more than 1,700 attendees, the 2025 festival will introduce four new content streams under its expanded format. The Creative Impact stream will focus on brand storytelling, advertising and marketing. Future Forward will address AI, machine learning, and data-driven marketing, while Screen & Influence will explore media distribution, influencer marketing, and content creation from an advertising lens. Luxury & Lifestyle will delve into marketing strategies across fashion, travel, hospitality and premium experiences.
Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman of Athar Festival and CEO of TRACCS, said: “Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as the region’s leader in creative communications – essential for any future-ready nation. Athar Festival plays a pivotal role in shaping the industry by driving innovation, talent development and strategic collaborations. The 2025 edition, featuring new initiatives like the Talent Hub and a dedicated startup exhibition space, offers an unparalleled platform to challenge creative boundaries, celebrate creative excellence, and catalyse the Kingdom’s creative economy.”
In addition to the main conference agenda, the festival will also expand the Athar Awards, now aligned with the four newly introduced content streams. The awards will span two days: the first dedicated to celebrating individual and team excellence in Saudi Arabia, and the second recognising standout campaigns within the Kingdom’s marketing and communications sector.
The festival’s agenda will include keynote sessions, workshops, immersive activations and curated networking opportunities. International trade delegations are also expected to participate, further integrating the Saudi creative economy with global players and partners.
For more information or to submit a speaker proposal for Athar, visit www.atharfestival.com.
