2019 Global Auto Salon Riyadh: Photo coverage

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is undergoing a dramatic transformation -– opening up its borders to curious tourists and relaxing a lot of rules that were once considered very strict. Vision 2030 as it is known is a plan to reduce the dependence on oil and diversify its economy.

Plenty of cultural and musical shows have been planned as part of the entertainment package. Riyadh Festival is one of the major ones.

As part of the Riyadh Festival and First Ever Riyadh Car Show, The Global Auto Salon took place from 21 to 26 November 2019 at the Janadriyah Cultural and Heritage Festivals Ground, located in the outskirts of Riyadh. It featured about 1,200 vehicles which included exotics, hot rods, trucks, race cars, drag racers and one-offs along with performance parts and accessories manufacturers.

Guests got the chance to meet some of the most recognised names from the automotive world. Figures included the likes of Chris Jacobs from Overhaulin’, Ryan from West Coast Customs, Richard from Fast N’ Loud and Vaughn Gittin Jr. from Formula Drift.

The amount, variety and value of vehicles displayed at the event would surely send any automotive enthusiast’s heart racing. An auction was held during the event where as many as 250 exotics went under the hammer. Aston Martin Lagonda, 1965 Mercedes Benz 600, 1962 Cadillac Eldorado, 1975 Ferrari 308 Dino GT Safari Coupe, 1930 Ford Model A Custom Rot Rod, 1968 Shelby GT500 Convertible, 1935 Ford Miler Indy Recreation Racer, 1916 La Bestioni Batmobile and 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Atlante Coupe were just some of the lots offered.

Terry Grant along with his team performed stunts which really got the crowd going. Various other activities like the Police Academy Show, Monster Truck Show and a Ferrari Show took place as well.

Being the first of its kind in the country, the event is being touted as a huge success with the number of visitors well exceeding expectations.

Photos by Usama Khan.