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Saudi Arabia: Connecting markets, innovating experiences, and shaping the future of events
Reimagining exhibitions: Beyond the booth Saudi Arabia’ s exhibitions are evolving beyond traditional boothbased formats, embracing immersive experiences, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability. Augmented reality, virtual networking platforms, and AIdriven analytics are being integrated into events to create interactive, data-driven, and personalised experiences. These innovations elevate the attendee experience, maximise exhibitor engagement, and attract global participants seeking sophisticated platforms for business and collaboration.
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO & Founder of 1st Arabia
he Saudi Arabian
T events market is witnessing a remarkable transformation, currently valued at approximately $ 2.04bn, with ambitious plans to nearly double this figure to $ 4.26bn by 2030, in line with the Kingdom’ s Vision 2030. This growth is driven by substantial investments in state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class venues, and advanced logistics capabilities, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global destination for mega exhibitions and conferences. Cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are rapidly emerging as international hubs, attracting participants from diverse sectors including technology, healthcare, education, and energy.
Vision 2030 initiatives have not only expanded the Kingdom’ s capacity for hosting large-scale events but also streamlined regulatory processes, making it easier for both regional and international organisers to operate within Saudi Arabia. The development of convention centres, exhibition halls, and dedicated event districts combined with strategic partnerships with global event organisers has created an ecosystem where innovation, commerce, and cultural exchange can thrive.
“ First Arabia’ s experience in managing large-scale conferences and exhibitions positions it uniquely to support the growth of specialised sectors such as healthcare, technology, construction, and energy”
First Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences has been at the forefront of this transformation. With years of expertise in organising high-profile international and regional events, First Arabia combines local knowledge with global best practices to deliver seamless experiences for both exhibitors and attendees. The company manages every stage of the event lifecycle from concept development and marketing to logistics, operations, and on-site execution ensuring that each exhibition meets international standards while reflecting the unique cultural and business landscape of Saudi Arabia.
By positioning Saudi Arabia as a strategic gateway for international trade, First Arabia facilitates connections between global markets and the Kingdom. Through carefully curated exhibitions, First Arabia enables foreign companies to enter the Saudi market, explore partnerships, and engage with a growing business community. At the same time, the company helps Saudi businesses showcase their products and services to international audiences, promoting cross-border collaboration and trade.
Bridging continents: Talent, opportunity and growth A critical pillar of Saudi Arabia’ s Vision 2030 is the development of human
58 Issue 5 2025 www. exhibitionworld. co. uk