Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has been named the strategic partner for the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh event, scheduled for September 8 to 10, 2026. The partnership aims to attract international investment and deepen collaboration within Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism sector, according to Fast Company Middle East.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh 2026 Event Details
WTM Spotlight Riyadh will take place over three days at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC) in Riyadh. The event will convene tourism authorities, hospitality firms, airlines, travel technology companies, investors, buyers, and industry leaders. Its primary function is to facilitate business engagement between Saudi and global tourism players.
Vision 2030 and Saudi Tourism Ambitions
The Saudi
government considers tourism a major pillar of its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. By the end of the decade, it targets tourism to contribute 10% of the national GDP and to attract 150 million annual domestic and international visitors. Ministry of Tourism data has shown ongoing growth in visitor numbers and spending.
B2B2C Platform to Drive International Connections
WTM Spotlight Riyadh is designed as a B2B2C platform that spans the entire travel and tourism ecosystem. The event seeks to create robust business connections, foster idea exchange, and provide direct access to Saudi Arabia’s tourism market for international companies and travel professionals.
Danielle Curtis, regional portfolio director
for the UAE at RX, described the partnership as a landmark development. She said, “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.” Curtis emphasized that the event is structured to generate meaningful business relationships and facilitate direct engagement with one of the most vibrant tourism markets worldwide.
