The inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh 2026 opens its doors tomorrow, 8 September, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC), marking the launch of a platform designed to connect international travel businesses with Saudi Arabia's rapidly evolving tourism market, while also linking Saudi stakeholders with global destinations, brands, and industry leaders.
Organised by RX, a global leader in events, the three-day event (8–10 September) comes as Saudi tourism targets a 10% contribution to national GDP by 2030, with sustained investment across hospitality, aviation, infrastructure, and entertainment creating new opportunities throughout the value chain. The Ministry of Tourism has been confirmed as Strategic Partner for this first edition, underscoring a joint commitment to accelerating sector growth and advancing Vision 2030 goals.
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director – UAE at RX, said: “The pace and scale of change taking place in Saudi Arabia make this an incredibly exciting moment for the travel industry.” She noted that Vision 2030 has fostered an environment where tourism, investment, and visitor experiences develop together, which was central to the decision to launch this event in Riyadh, with the aim of turning conversations into partnerships and commercial opportunities that extend beyond the event itself.
The conference programme opens under the theme “Driving Growth for Vision 2030,” exploring how tourism can deliver long-term economic and social value. Day two focuses on outbound demand and market access, highlighting the growing influence of Saudi travellers, while the final day, “Elevated Experiences & Connected Destinations,” examines the future visitor journey—from mobility and attractions to talent and technology—reflecting the interconnected nature of the Kingdom's inbound and outbound tourism potential.