Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is entering a milestone moment. As the Kingdom fast-tracks its Vision 2030 agenda, the first-ever WTM Spotlight Saudi Arabia will bring global travel leaders to Riyadh from 29 September to 1 October 2026. The landmark event will bridge international and Saudi tourism communities, showcasing the country’s rapidly expanding inbound and outbound markets.

Held at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Centre (RFECC), the event comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is targeting a 10% GDP contribution from tourism by 2030. With more than 450 exhibitors, 6,500 regional and international visitors, and 150 hosted buyers, WTM Spotlight Riyadh aims to spark new partnerships, investment opportunities, and industry innovation. Key discussions will focus on the future of Saudi tourism across mobility, hospitality, technology, sustainability, and visitor experience.

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Growth Continues to Break Records

Saudi Arabia’s tourism expansion is powered by unprecedented government investment and economic diversification. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the sector is expected to contribute over US$119 billion to the economy in 2025—exceeding 10% of national GDP and supporting 2.7 million jobs.

The UNWTO reports that Saudi Arabia recorded the world’s highest growth in international tourism spending in Q1 2025, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing appeal to travelers and investors.

Domestically, momentum is equally strong. The Ministry of Tourism announced record-breaking results for Saudi Summer 2025, attracting 32 million visitors, up 26% from 2024. Tourist spending reached SAR 53.2 billion (US$14.2 billion)—a 15% year-on-year increase.

Industry Voices: A New Global Platform for Saudi Tourism

Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME for Arabian Travel Market and WTM Spotlight Riyadh, said:

“WTM Spotlight Riyadh will reflect the ambition and scale of the Kingdom’s tourism evolution. It will bring together Saudi and global travel leaders to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and explore new opportunities that strengthen the industry’s future. By hosting the event in Riyadh, we are creating a platform that highlights how Vision 2030 is transforming tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. Saudi Arabia’s progress is redefining the way the world experiences travel, and this event will showcase that transformation to a global audience.”

The event will also offer international buyers exclusive access to curated itineraries and meetings, enabling them to experience Saudi Arabia firsthand—from major tourism megaprojects to new attractions, mobility enhancements, and hospitality developments.

Aviation Expansion to Power Future Travel

Aviation remains central to Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy. The national aviation plan aims to increase direct air routes from 100 to 250 destinations and triple passenger capacity to 330 million annually by 2030. Major investments include Riyadh Air and the new King Salman International Airport, both designed to enhance global connectivity.

Saudi Travellers: A Growing Influence on Global Markets

The global tourism industry is also taking note of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing outbound segment. According to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025:

• Middle East residents account for 10% of global outbound travel despite being less than 5% of the global population.
• Saudi travellers are among the world’s highest spenders, averaging US$4,800 per international trip.
• Outbound spending is expected to climb from US$27.5 billion in 2025 to US$47.8 billion by 2032, an 8.2% CAGR (Coherent Market Insights).

For global destinations, airlines, hotels, and travel brands, WTM Spotlight Riyadh offers direct access to one of the most valuable outbound markets in the world.

Technology, Innovation & Sustainability at the Forefront

Reflecting Vision 2030’s forward-thinking approach, the event will host conversations around travel technology, smart mobility, digital transformation, and sustainable tourism. The ATM Travel Trends Report 2025 forecasts total tourism expenditure in the Middle East to reach US$350 billion by 2030, driven largely by innovation and collaboration across the region.

Hospitality Sector Expands at Record Pace

Saudi Arabia’s hospitality pipeline is growing rapidly to meet rising demand. The Ministry of Tourism reported an 89% year-on-year increase in licensed hotels, guesthouses, and resorts in early 2025. WTM Spotlight Riyadh will serve as a key meeting point for investors, developers, and operators exploring opportunities in this high-growth market.

“WTM Spotlight Riyadh is designed to create meaningful connections that push the Kingdom’s tourism ambitions forward,” Curtis added. “It will showcase Saudi Arabia’s leadership in innovation, sustainability, and investment, as well as its growing influence within the global travel community.”

An Immersive Experience for Global Attendees

The event coincides with Riyadh Season, the Kingdom’s flagship cultural and entertainment festival under the Vision 2030 Quality of Life Programme. International visitors will have the opportunity to experience the country’s vibrant calendar of arts, performances, and attractions.

As part of the global WTM portfolio, which includes WTM London, WTM Africa, WTM Latin America, and Arabian Travel Market (ATM), WTM Spotlight Riyadh will reinforce the Kingdom’s role as one of the most influential players in the global tourism ecosystem, connecting destinations, brands, and buyers from around the world.