Riyadh : Saudi Arabia, represented by the Saudi Tourism Authority and 71 partners from the tourism ecosystem, concluded its successful participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) 2025. The Kingdom aimed to enhance international cooperation, open investment opportunities, establish strategic partnerships, and promote its diverse events and tourist destinations.
The “Land of Saudi Arabia” pavilion was a focal point, hosting over 30 Memoranda of Understanding signed with industry leaders and global brands. This initiative fostered strategic partnerships between local tourism entities and international organizations, supporting the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.
A highlight of the exhibition was the inaugural Destination Management Offices Awards. Diriyah received the Best Authentic Experience award for its exceptional representation of Saudi culture, while Qiddiya was recognized for Operational Excellence due to its high-level services and effective digital platform use. Madinah won the Best at the Exhibition award, showcasing authenticity and commercial impact.
The pavilion attracted over 15,000 visitors, offering a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s rich diversity and year-round appeal. The events calendar highlighted world-class attractions such as Formula 1, Soundstorm Festival, the Italian and Spanish Super Cups, and WWE Royal Rumble.
Visitors experienced interactive displays featuring leading destinations, tourism packages, and cultural activities, including handicrafts and live performances, all blending tradition with modernity. A live performance by MDLBEAST and an international campaign featuring football star Cristiano Ronaldo showcased Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for tourism, entertainment, and sports.
Mr. Abdullah Al-Haqbani, CEO of Partnerships and Regulatory Affairs at the Saudi Tourism Authority, remarked, “We come to the World Travel Market building on the momentum of welcoming nearly 116 million visitors last year and over 60.9 million in the first half of this year, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination.”
He added, “This exhibition celebrates the signing of new agreements reflecting the vast opportunities in our tourism ecosystem. The Destination Management Offices Awards highlight the talent and innovation shaping the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia.” Al-Haqbani concluded by expressing anticipation for the upcoming TOURISE Forum in Riyadh, which will gather over 1,000 global leaders from various sectors to discuss challenges, attract investments, and sign impactful initiatives for a sustainable tourism sector.
