WTM Spotlight Riyadh has announced the conference programme for its inaugural edition, bringing together tourism leaders from Saudi Arabia and international markets to explore opportunities created by the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding visitor economy.
The three-day event will take place from September 8–10, 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre (RFECC), with discussions focused on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism ambitions, outbound travel, connectivity, experiences, talent and technology.
The opening day, themed Driving Growth for Vision 2030, will examine how tourism growth can generate long-term economic and social benefits.
UN Tourism’s Samer Al-Kharashi will discuss how tourism can support regional development while preserving culture and nature and strengthening community participation.
UN Tourism will also partner with Chemonics International on a session exploring community tourism and locally rooted visitor experiences.
Tourism Economics Managing Director EMEA Dave Goodger will assess demand, spending and visitor trends and identify emerging opportunities across inbound and domestic tourism.
A CEO panel featuring leaders from Almosafer Travel & Tourism Co, Cruise Saudi and flyadeal will examine resilience and adaptability across tourism, aviation and hospitality.
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director – UAE, RX, said: “Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is developing at an extraordinary pace, creating opportunities across investment, destination development and the wider visitor economy. As the Kingdom advances its Vision 2030 ambitions, the conversation is increasingly about how that growth can translate into long-term economic value, exceptional visitor experiences and opportunities for communities across the country.”
Curtis added: “WTM Spotlight Riyadh will bring together international expertise, research and perspectives from those actively shaping the sector. From policy and regional development to outbound demand, mobility, technology and talent, the programme will examine the issues influencing the next phase of growth while strengthening connections between Saudi Arabia and the global tourism industry.”
The second day, Outbound Demand & Market Access, will focus on Saudi Arabia’s growing influence as an international source market. A Super Panel titled The $35BN Opportunity – How and Where to Capture Outbound Demand will explore strategies for destinations and travel brands seeking to capture Saudi outbound spending.
Discussions will also cover MICE and luxury tourism, including business events, immersive experiences and culturally relevant travel.
An Innovation Startup Showcase hosted by UN Tourism will examine Saudi Arabia’s tourism ecosystem, while a panel will address financing the sector’s future.
Other sessions will explore the growing Chinese travel market following Saudi Arabia’s Approved Destination Status, destinations attracting Saudi visitors and the rising importance of wellness tourism.
The final day, Elevated Experiences & Connected Destinations, will examine how infrastructure and investment can translate into stronger visitor experiences.
Sessions will address integrated tourism corridors linking aviation, cruise, rail and road networks, alongside entertainment, culture and attractions.
Sports tourism, religious tourism and the evolution of Umrah and pilgrimage will also feature.
The programme will conclude with a discussion on agentic AI and its potential to transform travel planning, recommendations and customer experiences.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh aims to connect Saudi Arabia with the global tourism industry through conferences, business meetings, networking and commercial opportunities involving destinations, hotels, airlines, attractions, technology companies, buyers and consumers. -TradeArabia News Service
