The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has partnered strategically with WTM Spotlight Riyadh as the strategic partner for the inaugural travel industry event scheduled for September 8 to 10, 2026, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Industry Participation and Event Purpose
WTM Spotlight Riyadh 2026 is designed to connect international tourism businesses with Saudi Arabia and provide Saudi companies access to global markets. The event will convene tourism authorities, destinations, hospitality companies, airlines, travel technology firms, investors, buyers, and industry leaders. It includes a full conference program and industry dialogues to explore investment and partnership opportunities across the Kingdom’s
tourism sector.
Saudi Vision 2030 and Tourism Targets
The partnership supports Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification under Vision 2030, aiming for tourism to contribute 10% of GDP and to attract 150 million domestic and international visitors annually by 2030. Recent Ministry of Tourism data indicates growth in visitor numbers and tourism spending, reinforcing these goals.
Official Statements and Event Role
Danielle Curtis, regional portfolio director, UAE, RX, organizer of WTM Spotlight Riyadh, 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 that
the event 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. WTM Spotlight Riyadh serves as a B2B2C platform spanning travel and tourism sectors and highlights Saudi Arabia’s role as both a major outbound and inbound travel market.
