The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has been confirmed as the Strategic Partner for the first edition of WTM Spotlight Riyadh, underscoring its commitment to accelerating tourism expansion and reinforcing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The partnership reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to strengthening international tourism cooperation and advancing its economic diversification strategy.
Event Dates and Location
WTM Spotlight Riyadh is scheduled for September 8-10, 2026, and will be hosted at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event aims to serve as a comprehensive platform facilitating connections between Saudi Arabia and the global travel industry by fostering business
and investment opportunities within the Kingdom’s growing tourism market.
Saudi Tourism Targets and Vision 2030
As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia targets tourism to contribute 10% of its gross domestic product and plans to welcome 150 million domestic and international visitors annually by 2030. Tourism is a central pillar in the country’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil, with increasing visitor numbers and tourism expenditure highlighted by recent Ministry of Tourism data.
Event Components and Market Focus
The inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh will assemble global destinations, tourism authorities, hospitality sectors, airlines, travel technology firms, investors, consumers, and leading industry professionals. Designed as a B2B2C platform, the event supports both
inbound and outbound tourism, creating avenues for Saudi companies to engage internationally and for global businesses to access Saudi Arabia’s tourism markets.
Official Statements and Strategic Importance
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director for UAE at RX, stated: “Our strategic partnership with the Ministry of Tourism is a defining moment for the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh and reflects the Kingdom’s ambition to play an even greater role in shaping the future of global tourism.” She added, “WTM Spotlight Riyadh has been designed to create meaningful business connections, encourage the exchange of ideas and provide international travel professionals with direct access to one of the world’s most
exciting tourism markets.” Curtis emphasized that the event will support Saudi Arabia’s long-term tourism development objectives.
Broader Context of Partnership
The collaboration between the Saudi Ministry of Tourism and WTM Spotlight Riyadh supports sustainable tourism development and international cooperation in line with Vision 2030. It positions Saudi Arabia as a rapidly expanding destination in the global tourism sector and promotes investment and partnership opportunities aligned with the Kingdom’s economic growth plans.
