TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Saudi Travel Market 2025, the premier B2B show for travel, tourism and hospitality sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will kick off at the Riyadh International Conventions & Exhibitions Centre from 10-12 February 2025. TRAVTALK is the official media partner for this second edition of the event. Mohamed Al Harbi, CEO, Rent Exhibitions and Saudi Travel Mart, shares details.
Dr Shehara Fernando
The Saudi Travel Market (STM) serves as a prominent platform showcasing the vast opportunities within Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. It provides a comprehensive view of industry developments and fosters collaboration among local and international stakeholders. STM aims to support Vision 2030 by facilitating meaningful connections among tourism professionals and highlighting efforts to position Saudi Arabia as a distinctive and diverse global destination. The second edition boasts an expanded exhibition area, an increased number of international and local participants, and specialised workshops and seminars focusing on cutting-edge tourism technologies and innovations. The event aims to build bridges between local and global businesses, fostering collaborations that drive the creation of tourism products tailored to evolving market demands.
How does the event facilitate collaborations between global firms and Saudi stakeholders?
By creating an interactive environment, the event enables direct meetings and agreements between exhibitors and visitors, enhancing partnerships across the tourism value chain.
What role do tourism authorities play in fostering these partnerships?
Tourism authorities play a pivotal role in supporting participants by offering guidance and resources that ensure successful and sustainable partnerships.
What emerging trends in the travel industry will be highlighted at the event?
The exhibition will focus on innovations, such as AI-driven solutions, virtual reality experiences, and sustainable practices that are reshaping the global tourism landscape.
How will the exhibition promote innovation in tourism?
Through dedicated seminars and panel discussions, the event will provide a platform to exchange groundbreaking ideas, showcasing solutions that redefine visitor experiences.
What solutions or technologies are expected to take centre stage in the 2025 edition?
Highlights include the application of artificial intelligence in enhancing travel experiences, virtual reality for immersive destination previews, and sustainable destination management solutions.
How will the STM enhance international awareness of Saudi Arabia’s attractions?
The event emphasises the cultural and geographical diversity of Saudi Arabia by featuring local companies that showcase the unique experiences and attractions the Kingdom has to offer, inspiring global visitors to explore. Several Saudi Destination Management Companies (DMCs) will represent different regions of the Kingdom, highlighting key landmarks and showcasing the beauty and cultural diversity of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
How does promoting domestic tourism contribute to the Kingdom’s broader economic development?
Domestic tourism stimulates local economies by creating jobs, empowering communities, and increasing tourist spending within the Kingdom, supporting the objectives of Vision 2030.
What level of participation is expected from international and local entities?
The event welcomes diverse participation from international and local companies and organisations, creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange across the tourism sector.
How does the General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences support this event?
The General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences provides essential support and guidance to ensure the event’s successful execution on all levels.
In what ways will the Saudi Travel Market strengthen the country’s position as a global tourism hub?
By uniting key players in the travel and tourism industry, the event showcases the Kingdom’s advancements and its commitment to integrating tradition with modernity, solidifying its position as a global hub for tourism.
What are the long-term expectations from the Saudi Travel Market in shaping the region’s tourism landscape?
We aspire for the Saudi Travel Market to strengthen regional cooperation and knowledge sharing, paving the way for greater development opportunities in the tourism sector. Additionally, we aim for the event to be a sustainable platform supporting Saudi Arabia’s vision for balanced and diversified growth in tourism.
How can the outcomes of this event drive investment in Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector?
The event will showcase KSA’s immense potential in the tourism industry, attracting global investors and driving new projects that bolster the national economy.
What lessons from the first edition are being applied to ensure greater success in 2025?
Key lessons include the importance of delivering a seamless visitor and participant experience, focusing on high-quality organisation, and creating exceptional opportunities for networking and collaboration.
