Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors (MYNM), the official importer of BMW in Saudi Arabia, has announced its role as Premier Sponsor of the first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh. The event, taking place until the 23rd of May at JAX District, marks the Kingdom’s debut of a high-quality design fair, bringing together international brands and local creative talent.
As part of its sponsorship, BMW Saudi Arabia has unveiled the BMW Lounge, designed by Saudi designer Amani Al-Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director at Kristina Zanic Consultants. The lounge serves as the main hospitality hub of the event, welcoming VIPs from the worlds of architecture, design and culture.
The BMW Lounge reflects the luxury brand’s design ethos and sustainability values. Drawing inspiration from the BMW i7’s interior and the natural contours of Saudi Arabia’s Mount Tuwaiq, the installation integrates local design motifs with sustainable materials such as Econyl. Its curved surfaces, ambient lighting, and a sculptural ceiling rooted in Najdi heritage exemplify BMW’s vision of “Forwardism” — a design philosophy that balances heritage with innovation.
David McGoldrick, Managing Director of MYNM, described the initiative as “a celebration of cultural expression through design,” and emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering Saudi talent in line with Vision 2030.
Designer Amani Al-Ibrahim commented on the local inspiration behind the project: “For The BMW Lounge, we drew inspiration from our regional landscape, particularly the contours and elevations of the Tuwaiq Mountains, which hold deep cultural significance.” Her concept, titled Woven Landscape, aims to foster connection through a serene and welcoming space.
Downtown Design Riyadh, held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, offers a curated platform to connect Saudi Arabia’s creative sector with global design leaders. The event supports the Kingdom’s cultural development strategy by facilitating collaboration and dialogue in the design industry.
