WTM Spotlight Riyadh unveils conference agenda
WTM Spotlight Riyadh has unveiled the
conference programme for its inaugural edition, bringing together international and
regional tourism leaders to examine the opportunities emerging from Saudi Arabia’s
rapidly expanding visitor economy.
Event Overview
- Dates: 8–10 September 2026
- Venue: Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC)
- Focus: Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding visitor economy, aligned with Vision 2030
Day 1 – Driving Growth for Vision 2030
- Tourism’s role in long-term economic & social value
- Rural development insights by Samer Al-Kharashi (UN Tourism)
- Villages to Value Chains session with Chemonics International & Ministry of Culture
- Economic trends analysis by Dave Goodger (Oxford Economics)
- CEO panel on resilience with leaders from Almosafer, Cruise Saudi, and flyadeal
Day 2 – Outbound Demand & Market Access
- Super Panel: “The $35BN Opportunity” on Saudi outbound travel demand
- MICE & luxury travel discussions
- UN Tourism’s Innovation Startup Showcase with Red Sea Global, Eye Go, and Tourism Development Fund
- China-Saudi travel opportunities with Dragon Trail International
- Wellness and premium travel trends
Day 3 – Elevated Experiences & Connected Destinations
- Integrated tourism corridors via aviation, cruise, rail, and road
- Attractions & entertainment insights from Qiddiya
- Sports tourism and religious tourism (Umrah & pilgrimage evolution)
- Closing session on agentic AI in travel with Ministry of Tourism
Significance
WTM Spotlight Riyadh is designed to connect Saudi Arabia to the global tourism industry, bringing together destinations, airlines, hospitality providers, tech companies, and investors. It’s a platform to showcase how Vision 2030’s tourism ambitions are reshaping both inbound and outbound travel.
This event sits at the intersection of policy, investment, technology, and culture, making it one of the most important tourism gatherings in the region.
