Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector is on the verge of impressive expansion, with projections indicating a growth from $27 billion in 2025 to over $54 billion. This growth is primarily fueled by Vision 2030, the introduction of new premium hotel developments, and an influx of inbound travel.

The WTM Spotlight Riyadh, occurring from September 8–10 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Centre, will unite global and regional tourism leaders to delve into these emerging trends.

The focus of the event will be the expansion of the hotel sector within the Kingdom and the rising importance of Saudi travelers, both domestically and abroad. According to Mordor Intelligence, the Kingdom had about 167,500 hotel keys in Q1 2025, with a considerable portion allocated to the high-end market.

Plans are underway to introduce an additional 99,500 hotel rooms, with 78% aimed at the premium segment.

Vision 2030 envisages delivering 362,000 hotel rooms by the end of the decade, aligning with a national objective of attracting 150 million visitors each year. Religious tourism will remain a pivotal factor, with the government aiming for 30 million Umrah pilgrims by 2030. Furthermore, international hotel brands, such as Accor and Hilton, will represent 40% of the upcoming hotel supply.

Danielle Curtis stated, “Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by a long-term national vision, robust investor confidence, and increasing demand from both visitors to the Kingdom and Saudi travellers abroad.”

The WTM Spotlight Riyadh is expected to showcase over 450 exhibitors and attract 6,500 visitors, serving as a major platform for collaboration and business development in the tourism industry.