JLL has launched a dedicated Sports and Entertainment (S&E) Hub based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
While anchored in the Saudi capital, the S&E Hub will serve both regional and global clients and projects, offering end-to-end service lifecycle solutions for sports organizations, developers, investors, and brands looking to unlock the sector’s immense potential across markets.
JLL is a leading global professional services firm specializing in real estate and investment management. The new hub will serve as a central base for specialised real estate services ranging from leasing and operations management to development consultancy and investment solutions, underscoring JLL’s commitment to delivering iconic venues and meeting real estate objectives through world-class sports and entertainment assets.
This strategic expansion leverages JLL’s established position as a sports and entertainment real estate leader, with more than US$87 billion of relevant project value managed globally across more than 60 sports and entertainment organisations.
Ahmed Abas, a certified PPP professional with more than 15 years of experience in the region, has been appointed JLL’s Regional Head of Sports & Entertainment for the Middle East & Africa, to drive the sector’s growth in the region.
Abas noted that, “The launch of JLL’s new hub will catalyze this dynamic sector and help our clients navigate complexities, maximize value, and deliver iconic landmarks and integrated entertainment destinations. Our regional and global work on giga projects and sports and entertainment venues positions us as a best-in-class partner, empowering our consulting and capital markets practices with real-time local data and practical experience from our leasing, facilities, and property management practices.”
Mireille Azzam Vidjen, Head of Strategic Consulting MEA at JLL, said that, “The new Sports & Entertainment offering within our wider consulting portfolio is unique because it allows us to provide specialist advice on sports and entertainment, whilst integrating such facilities into wider urban communities. This integrated approach delivers better financial viability for our clients and enhanced quality of life for residents, creating destinations that truly serve their communities.”
