Thank You Lisbon: A Grateful Reflection on an Unforgettable Real Estate Summit

I recently had the privilege of attending the 17th Real Estate Development Summit – Saudi Arabia Europe Edition in Lisbon, and I feel compelled to express my deepest gratitude to the Portuguese Saudi Business Council, to Mr. Abílio da Alagoa Silva, and to the GBB team for the generous invitation to be part of such a dynamic and meaningful event.

By Paulo Lopes, in Property, Business · 30 Jun 2025, 13:27 · 0 Comments

It was a great honor to be there, not only as a participant but also as someone able to share insights and exchange knowledge with remarkable professionals, particularly with Saudi developers, international architects, and officials shaping the future of real estate in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Lisbon welcomed the world’s real estate community with purpose and elegance. Over two days, the Centro de Congressos de Lisboa transformed into a true meeting point between continents, ideologies, and ambitions. But this was not just another industry gathering; it was a launchpad for the ideas, partnerships, and innovations driving one of the most ambitious national transformations we are witnessing today: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

As someone who had the opportunity to visit Saudi Arabia this past June, I can confidently say that what was discussed and shown on stage during this summit is not just a vision, it is reality, unfolding at an extraordinary scale and speed. The projects presented, the strategies revealed, and the people behind them left an impression. I saw firsthand in Saudi Arabia what the summit confirmed: this is a country reshaping its landscape and redefining global standards through creativity, sustainability, and bold investment.

Throughout the summit, I was especially inspired by the presentations delivered by some of the most respected architectural firms and real estate developers in the world. These were not abstract concepts or future dreams; they were grounded, detailed, and already in motion. From fully integrated smart cities to hospitality projects embedded in nature, what stood out was the deep care given to design that reflects culture, climate, and community. These architectural visions are more than structures they are living environments, designed to support wellbeing, sustainability, and long-term value.

One highlight for me was the way lighting, air quality, and nature-based design were addressed. Several presenters demonstrated how biophilic design and smart lighting systems can transform not only physical space but emotional experience. The integration of plants into built environments and the use of advanced air purification technologies are no longer niche concepts. They are becoming fundamental components of high-end design. This thoughtful approach to human-centered living resonated deeply, showing that the future of real estate is not just about buildings, but about how people feel within them.

The Saudi developers present at the summit shared real-world case studies that reflect the ambition behind Vision 2030. Massive housing developments, luxury resort destinations like The Red Sea Project, and next-generation urban hubs such as NEOM are already underway. These are not isolated megaprojects; they are part of a national strategy that prioritizes diversification, quality of life, and global engagement. The numbers speak volumes: over 500,000 homes planned by 2030, more than $100 billion invested in hospitality, and new infrastructure gearing up for landmark events like the FIFA World Cup 2034 and the 2029 Asian Winter Games.

What impressed me most, however, was the openness of dialogue. This summit was not about polished speeches it was about conversation. It was about people sitting across the table, exploring ideas, exchanging cards, and asking the right questions. I had the chance to speak with Saudi stakeholders who are not only decision-makers but listeners individuals actively looking to collaborate with international talent and experience. The spirit of the event was not transactional, but transformational.

This would not have been possible without the extraordinary organization and vision of those behind the scenes. I want to sincerely thank Mr. Abílio da Alagoa Silva and the Portuguese Saudi Business Council for building such a strong bridge between Portugal and Saudi Arabia. Their commitment to connecting the right people with the right opportunities at the right time made this event truly special. I also want to commend the GBB team for curating a seamless, high-level experience. Their professionalism, precision, and global outlook brought this summit to life in a way that felt both personal and powerful.

As I reflect on my time in Lisbon, I feel a renewed sense of optimism and purpose. The summit showed that Saudi Arabia is not just opening it is reaching out. And for companies, professionals, and creatives who are ready to contribute with substance and long-term commitment, there is a place at the table. I am grateful to have been part of these conversations and to witness the bridges being built between Europe and the Gulf.

Thank you again to everyone who made this experience possible. It was an honor to be present, to contribute, and to learn. The future of real estate is unfolding, and it is being shaped by those who dare to imagine and who act with clarity and courage. Lisbon was the stage, but the story continues in Saudi Arabia, and I look forward to being part of it.

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Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.