Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has become a strategic partner for the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh event, which will take place from September 8 to 10, 2026, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC).
Event Objectives and Participants
WTM Spotlight Riyadh is designed to connect international tourism businesses with Saudi Arabia, providing Saudi companies direct access to global markets. The three-day event will convene tourism authorities, destinations, hospitality companies, airlines, travel technology firms, investors, buyers, and industry leaders to explore business and investment opportunities across the Kingdom.
Saudi Vision 2030 Tourism Goals
Tourism is a central part of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030. The
Kingdom aims for tourism to contribute 10% of GDP and attract 150 million domestic and international visitors annually by 2030. According to figures from the Ministry of Tourism, visitor numbers and tourism spending continue to grow, supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a leading global tourism destination.
Official Statements on the Partnership
Danielle Curtis, regional portfolio director, UAE of RX, the event organizer, 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.” 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.”
International Reach and Platform
The event is expected to attract international exhibitors, visitors, and hosted buyers from the travel industry. Presented as a B2B2C platform, WTM Spotlight Riyadh spans the broader travel and tourism ecosystem and supports investment, international partnerships, and collaboration across the tourism sector aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.
