| By Travel Daily News

Debut Event Set for 2026 in Riyadh

WTM Spotlight Riyadh will launch in 2026, marking its first edition with a dedicated focus on Saudi Arabia’s fast-expanding outbound tourism sector. The event highlights the Kingdom’s rising influence on global travel patterns and high-value travel behaviour, especially in luxury and customized segments.

Outbound Travel Market Entering New Growth Phase

Saudi outbound travel continues to surge, supported by higher disposable income, a shift toward digital travel planning, and a growing appetite for elevated travel experiences. These trends will shape discussions at the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh, scheduled for September 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Centre (RFECC).

Market Value Projected to Hit Nearly US$48 Billion

According to Coherent Market Insights, Saudi Arabia’s outbound tourism market is valued at around US$27.5 billion by 2025. Forecasts show the figure may reach US$47.8 billion by 2032, reflecting the Kingdom’s expanding global travel impact.

Saudi Travellers Reshaping Destination Demand

WTM Spotlight Riyadh will gather international tourism leaders to examine how Saudi travellers are influencing established and emerging destinations. Preferences for luxury stays, tailored itineraries, and multi-generational travel continue to define this top-tier segment.

International Bookings Continue to Climb

Almosafer data reveals that bookings to destinations outside the MENA region rose by 11% in Q1 2025, while international overnight stays increased by 13%. Travellers are exploring destinations beyond traditional favourites such as London, Paris, Istanbul, Phuket, Rome, and Cape Town.

New Markets Gain Momentum

Balance Tourism insights show rising interest in newer destinations—Georgia and Azerbaijan for cooler climates, Bosnia and Herzegovina for halal-friendly European travel, and parts of Southeast Asia with well-developed halal infrastructure.

Premium Travel Spend Drives Market Value

Research shows that 41% of Saudi outbound travellers opt for five-star hotels and 32% choose four-star stays, with daily accommodation spend exceeding US$300. Full-service airlines remain the top choice, preferred by 86% of travellers. Shopping also remains a central travel driver.

WTM Spotlight Riyadh to Host Global Tourism Leaders

The 2026 event will explore the cultural and commercial effects of Saudi Arabia’s outbound travel growth. The debut edition aims to welcome about 450 exhibitors, 6,500 regional and international visitors, and 150 hosted buyers.

Event Designed for Business Growth + Market Insight

WTM Spotlight Riyadh will offer curated meeting opportunities, scheduled B2B sessions, and learning forums focusing on traveller behaviour, innovation, and market intelligence for helping brands align with Saudi travel expectations.

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Tourism Role

As part of the wider WTM global portfolio, WTM Spotlight Riyadh reinforces Saudi Arabia’s positioning in international tourism while supporting long-term collaboration with destinations and travel brands worldwide.

Original Article:

Travel Daily News. (2025). WTM Spotlight: Riyadh to explore Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing high-yield outbound travel market. https://www.traveldailynews.com/meetings-events/wtm-spotlight-riyadh-to-explore-saudi-arabias-fast-growing-high-yield-outbound-travel-market/