Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has become the strategic partner of the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh, a travel industry event scheduled for September 8 to 10, 2026, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC). The partnership aims to strengthen the Kingdom’s position in global tourism and attract international investment to its growing sector.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh 2026 Connects Saudi and International Tourism Sectors
Designed as a B2B2C platform, WTM Spotlight Riyadh will bring together tourism authorities, destinations, airlines, hospitality companies, travel technology firms, investors, buyers, and industry leaders. The event’s purpose is to facilitate meaningful business connections between Saudi entities and international tourism companies, while supporting investment and
collaboration opportunities within the Kingdom’s tourism market.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Drives Tourism Growth Targets
The Ministry’s strategic involvement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification goals, in which tourism is targeted to contribute 10% to the national GDP by 2030. The Kingdom aims to attract 150 million domestic and international visitors annually by that time. Recent official data from the Ministry of Tourism confirms sustained growth in visitor numbers and tourism expenditures, underpinning Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a leading global tourism destination.
Industry Leadership Remarks on Partnership Importance
Danielle Curtis, regional portfolio director for UAE at RX, which organizes WTM Spotlight Riyadh, described the partnership as a defining moment for the
event. Curtis said the collaboration reflects Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to enhance its role in shaping global tourism’s future. She stated the event will enable international travel professionals to gain direct entry to the Saudi tourism market and promote exchange of ideas and business connections between the Kingdom and global tourism stakeholders.
