WTM Spotlight Riyadh will bring together global tourism stakeholders to explore business opportunities, strengthen partnerships and support the continued growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.
The event comes as Saudi Arabia continues to record steady growth in tourism. According to data from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, the Kingdom welcomed 37.2 million visitors during the first quarter of 2026, an 8% increase compared to the same period last year. Tourist spending reached SAR82.7 billion, while domestic tourism increased by 16%, reflecting growing demand for the Kingdom’s expanding tourism offerings.
In 2025, Saudi Arabia recorded nearly 123 million domestic and international visitors, generating more than SAR304 billion in tourism spending and achieving its Vision 2030 tourism targets ahead of schedule.
Industry data from STR also indicates continued momentum in the sector. Jeddah has recorded strong demand since March 2026, supported by its coastal tourism appeal, with growth projections revised upward and recovery expected to continue through 2027. In Riyadh, demand is projected to strengthen in 2027 as major giga-projects progress, with performance expected to return to 2025 levels by February.
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director, UAE, RX, said: “Tourism has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary ability to recover, adapt and grow, even in the face of significant challenges. Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is an excellent example of this resilience. Supported by Vision 2030 and continued investment in tourism infrastructure, aviation, hospitality and visitor experiences, the Kingdom has built a robust ecosystem that continues to generate growth, attract investment and create opportunities across the travel value chain.
“By bringing together international and regional travel stakeholders, WTM Spotlight Riyadh provides a focused environment where meaningful business relationships can be established and developed, knowledge can be shared, and new opportunities can be unlocked.”
Research by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), developed in partnership with George Washington University and Chemonics International, also highlights the travel sector’s ability to recover from disruptions. The research notes that recovery is often supported by leadership, investment and collaboration. Chemonics International will deliver three conference sessions during WTM Spotlight Riyadh.
Ibrahim Osta, Senior Economic Growth Director & Global Tourism Lead at Chemonics International, said: “Recovery doesn’t just happen – it’s a decision. The destinations that came back fastest are the ones that made the bold decision to invest at the height of the crisis, protected their businesses, and controlled their own narrative when everyone else went quiet. That is not luck. That is leadership.”
Saudi Arabia has continued investing across aviation, hospitality and destination development. Passenger traffic through the Kingdom’s airports reached 140.9 million in 2025, while its international air connectivity expanded to 176 destinations, according to the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
Ongoing investments in hotels, airport infrastructure, visitor experiences and tourism developments are supporting Saudi Arabia’s goal of welcoming 150 million visitors annually by 2030.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh has been designed as a focused B2B2C platform connecting destinations, tourism authorities, hospitality providers, airlines, travel technology companies, tourism service providers and buyers. The event aims to facilitate business meetings, networking opportunities and knowledge-sharing while supporting Saudi Arabia’s long-term tourism objectives.
The event is expected to welcome more than 6,500 regional and international visitors, along with 150 international hosted buyers, providing a platform for industry stakeholders to develop partnerships and explore new business opportunities.
Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, WTM Spotlight Riyadh will support international collaboration and contribute to the continued development of the Kingdom’s tourism sector.
