Saudi Arabia is advancing its plans to build world-class sports infrastructure and public recreation spaces, with over $2 billion in committed investments and projected sector revenue reaching $5.9 billion by 2030 (Source: Arab News; PwC Global Sports Survey). As the Kingdom prepares to host major global events—including the 2027 Asian Cup, Riyadh Expo 2030, and the 2034 FIFA World Cup—development efforts are being accelerated under Vision 2030.
In support of these goals, the inaugural edition of FSB Sports Show Riyadh will take place from 16–18 June at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. The event is organised by dmg events in collaboration with Koelnmesse, marking the first time the internationally recognised FSB – International Trade Fair for Public Space, Sports and Leisure Facilities brand is being brought to Saudi Arabia.
“From active cities and giga projects to school playgrounds and public parks, Saudi Arabia is transforming how it designs and delivers spaces for sports, wellness and recreation,” said Muhammed Kazi, Senior Vice President – Construction, dmg events. “FSB Sports Show Riyadh has been developed to address this evolution and enable connections that can support long-term sector growth.”
“FSB is the international benchmark for innovations in sports and leisure facilities. As Saudi Arabia scales up investment across public parks, playgrounds or stadiums to increase the health and well-being of the public, now is the ideal time to bring this event to Riyadh,” said Denis Steker, Senior Vice President – International, Koelnmesse.
Aligned with Vision 2030’s goals around public health, youth development, and tourism, the exhibition will focus on integrated sports and wellness zones within giga projects, while promoting the expansion of urban green and recreational spaces.
The three-day event will feature products and solutions across gym and fitness systems, playgrounds, outdoor furniture, synthetic turf, smart facility systems, water technologies, and more. Participants will include both international and regional companies, such as:
- Asharqiyah Cables – Saudi-based manufacturer of control and fire-resistant cables
- Yardex – global artificial grass supplier for sports and landscaping
- Bejadin – Saudi company providing electro-mechanical and smart building services
- BSG – Poland-based chemical components and industrial solutions provider
Visitors to the show will include planners and buyers from sectors such as municipal governance, education, hospitality, defence, and entertainment. Representatives from major entities including the Ministry of Sport, Ministry of Education, NEOM, Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Royal Commission for Riyadh City, and General Entertainment Authority are also expected.
“Saudi Arabia’s sports sector is growing rapidly, evolving in scope and sophistication. We now see demand for more integrated and digitally enabled facilities that cater to every age group, community type and use case,” said Ahmed Al-Omair, CEO of ORF Construction Chemical Solutions.
“Saudi Arabia offers unmatched potential in the sports and leisure space, given the country’s ambitious plans and the planned sporting events in the upcoming years,” said Genny Logan, General Manager, Faris Group.
FSB Sports Show Riyadh will feature two focused content platforms—Saudi Sports & Leisure Summit (16 June) and ActiveSpaces 360 (17–18 June). These sessions are aimed at sharing best practices and discussing the development of future-ready sports and recreational facilities.
The Saudi Sports & Leisure Summit will examine topics such as public-private collaboration, venue design, and facility management. Confirmed speakers include:
- Alanood Alothaimeen, Saudi Sports for All Federation
- Paul Goodall, Populous
- Yehia Madkour, Perkins & Will
- John Seed, Dar Al Riyadh
Themes include sustainability, legacy and multi-use venue design, and international trends in sports infrastructure.
ActiveSpaces 360 will cover strategies for the design, construction and operation of urban and community sports spaces. Speakers include:
- Tom Pinnington, The Sports Consultancy (UK)
- Paul Rigby, FaulknerBrowns Architects (UK)
- Klaus Meinel, IAKS
- Luis Guimaraes, Alvarez & Marsal
Session topics will address maintenance of synthetic surfaces, the social value of elite sports facilities, and innovations in surface performance.
The event is sponsored by Doka (Theatre Sponsor), with support from partners including Al Yamama (Sports Facilities Solutions Partner), Syngenta Turf & Landscape, Naffco, AHK (Knowledge Partner), AIA Middle East, IAKS, ESTC, Marafei Almarefah (Golfing Partner), and Teleiosx (Racing Partner).
