WTM Spotlight Riyadh Unveils Conference Agenda for Inaugural Edition
WTM Spotlight Riyadh has unveiled the conference agenda for its inaugural edition. The three-day programme will explore Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing tourism sector and its global opportunities.
The event will take place from September 8 to 10, 2026, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center. Tourism leaders will examine Vision 2030, outbound travel, destination development and new technology.
Vision 2030 Takes Centre Stage
The opening day will focus on Driving Growth for Vision 2030. Sessions will examine how Saudi Arabia can turn tourism growth into long-term economic and social value.
Samer Al-Kharashi of UN Tourism will discuss how tourism can support regional development. The session will also explore ways to protect culture and nature while improving local quality of life.
Furthermore, UN Tourism and Chemonics International will present a session on community tourism. Speakers will examine how local visitor experiences can create lasting economic benefits.
Tourism Economics Managing Director Dave Goodger will also assess Saudi Arabia’s latest tourism trends. His session will cover visitor demand, spending and emerging opportunities across inbound and domestic tourism.
Focus on Saudi Outbound Travel
The second day will focus on Outbound Demand & Market Access. Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a major source market will be central to the discussions.
A Super Panel titled The $35BN Opportunity – How and Where to Capture Outbound Demand will examine ways destinations and travel brands can attract Saudi travellers.
Meanwhile, sessions will explore MICE and luxury tourism. Speakers will discuss international business events, immersive travel and culturally relevant luxury experiences.
The programme will also feature an Innovation Startup Showcase hosted by UN Tourism. The session will examine Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism technology ecosystem and future funding opportunities.
In addition, a China-Saudi session will examine the growing Chinese travel market. Other discussions will cover wellness tourism and destinations that appeal to Saudi travellers.
Connected Destinations and New Experiences
The final day will focus on Elevated Experiences & Connected Destinations. Discussions will examine how infrastructure and investment can create stronger visitor experiences.
Aviation, cruise, rail and road networks will feature in sessions on integrated tourism corridors. Speakers will also explore how entertainment, culture and major attractions can shape visitor journeys.
Sports tourism will receive attention as Saudi Arabia hosts more major events. Discussions will focus on creating year-round demand and encouraging repeat visits.
Religious tourism will also feature prominently. The programme will examine improvements in Umrah and pilgrimage services, mobility and digital systems.
AI and the Future of Travel
The conference will conclude with a discussion on agentic AI in travel. Salman A. Alarifi of the Saudi Ministry of Tourism will join industry experts for the session.
The discussion will examine how AI can simplify trip planning and personalise travel recommendations. It will also explore how AI could change the way travellers discover, book and experience destinations.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh aims to connect Saudi Arabia with the global tourism industry. Alongside the conference, the B2B2C event will bring together destinations, hotels, airlines, attractions, technology companies, buyers and consumers.
Business meetings, networking and commercial opportunities will form a key part of the three-day event.
