Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia and WTM Spotlight Riyadh announce strategic partnership for inaugural event
WTM Spotlight Riyadh has
announced the Ministry of Tourism as Strategic Partner for the inaugural edition
of the event, highlighting a shared commitment to accelerating tourism growth,
strengthening international collaboration, and supporting the ambitions of Saudi
Vision 2030.
Strategic Partnership
- The Ministry of Tourism is the Strategic Partner for the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh.
- Reflects a shared commitment to accelerating tourism growth, strengthening international collaboration, and advancing Saudi Vision 2030.
Event Details
- Dates: 8–10 September 2026
- Venue: Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC)
- Purpose: Connect Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.
Scope & Participation
- Brings together: destinations, tourism authorities, hospitality providers, airlines, travel tech firms, investors, and consumers.
- Designed as a B2B2C platform, supporting both inbound and outbound tourism opportunities.
- Expected to attract global travel leaders, hosted buyers, and exhibitors.
Vision 2030 Alignment
- Tourism is a pillar of economic diversification, targeted to contribute 10% of GDP.
- Goal: 150 million visitors annually (domestic + international) by 2030.
- Recent figures show strong growth in visitor numbers and spending, reinforcing momentum.
Impact
- Encourages investment and international partnerships.
- Provides a platform for sustainable tourism development.
- Positions Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism destination.
- Builds long-term foundations for WTM Spotlight Riyadh as a recurring event.
Quote
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director, RX:
> “Our strategic partnership with the Ministry of Tourism is a defining moment… Together with the Ministry, we are building an event that reflects the ambition and scale of Saudi Arabia’s tourism transformation.”
This partnership signals Saudi Arabia’s intent to play a bigger role in shaping global tourism while showcasing its rapid transformation under Vision 2030.
