Riyadh
Saudi Arabia has garnered significant attention as it develops its exhibitions and conferences industry, a vital part of its strategy to diversify its economic base. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector is projected to grow by 11% annually over the coming years, making it the fastest-growing in the Middle East.
The General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences has been actively discussing with investors the ongoing transformations in the sector, in collaboration with the Riyadh Chamber’s Exhibition and Conference Committee. The acting CEO of the Authority, Mohammed Al-Abdali, highlighted the sector’s strengths and investment opportunities and noted the rapid developments and achievements the Authority has facilitated to enhance the industry.
Al-Abdali emphasized continuous efforts to form partnerships between the Authority and various governmental and private entities to elevate the sector. Such initiatives include improving infrastructure, increasing the number of registered venues and seating capacities on the Authority’s online portal, and enhancing the skills of national workforce through training and qualification programs led by local and international experts.
The sector not only supports economic growth but also plays a crucial role in environmental sustainability. Saudi Arabia, with its Vision 2030, has seen significant successes in organizing and hosting numerous local and international events. These include major global events like the “Future Investment Initiative” and the “World Travel & Tourism Council Summit,” which have positioned the Kingdom as a strong competitor in the industry.
Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in the exhibitions and conferences sector reflects its enhanced capacity for economic development and increased investment, marking hundreds of local, regional, and global events hosted in recent years, underscoring the Kingdom’s rising status and competitiveness on various fronts.
