Sponsored Content |
|||||
|
On the partnerships front, our memberships in international organisations such as UFI, IAEE, MPI, and PCMA strengthen our ability to apply global best practices and connect with international networks of experts. The company also plays a vital role in creating direct and indirect economic opportunities by employing Saudi talents and stimulating related sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and food services.
EW – What are the key trends and challenges currently shaping the exhibitions and events sector, and how is your company responding to them? One of the most prominent trends we are observing is the shift toward digitisation and smart technologies. Virtual and hybrid solutions have become integral to event design, driving us to invest in augmented reality, live streaming, and data analytics to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Sustainability is another growing focus and we are committed to applying sustainable practices in both design and operations – such as waste reduction and the use of recyclable materials – to minimise our ecological footprint. Among the main challenges, infrastructure stands out. The rapid growth in the number of events requires expansion in exhibition centres and supporting services, especially as the Kingdom aims to attract 150m tourists by 2030. Another key challenge is the availability of qualified human capital, which is why we invest heavily in training and empowering Saudi youth to lead events in accordance with international best practices.
EW – What of your vision for the future of 1st Arabia, including any upcoming projects? In Saudi Arabia, exhibitions and events are not merely promotional tools – they are economic and cultural
|
catalysts that play a vital role in achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. In this context, 1st Arabia Exhibitions & Conferences is implementing an ambitious expansion strategy on multiple levels. First, we are working to launch a series of specialised events in key strategic sectors, aiming to attract global investors and experts to the Kingdom while promoting knowledge exchange and innovation.
Second, we plan to expand our geographical presence across Saudi Arabia by organising events in new regions, contributing to the growth of domestic tourism and the distribution of economic opportunities. We have established a dedicated division to manage exhibition centres across the Kingdom and recently signed an agreement to operate the Exhibition Center of the Najran Chamber of Commerce.
Third, we are exploring strategic international partnerships with global organisers to expand our footprint beyond Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Gulf and Middle East regions.
|
EW – How are you integrating digital transformation, sustainability, and global standards into your business model and operations? In terms of digital transformation, we have adopted advanced technological solutions in event management – including smart registration systems, e-tickets, and virtual engagement tools – all designed to enhance the |
Top left: 1st Arabia Biofach
Bottom left: 1st Arabia exhibition
|
participant experience and facilitate data-driven decision-making. We also utilise augmented reality and live streaming technologies to expand event reach and offer hybrid participation models that blend physical and virtual attendance.
On the sustainability front, we are committed to implementing eco-friendly practices and partnering with suppliers who share our environmental values. Our event designs aim to minimise carbon footprints, considering factors like transportation and energy consumption. We encourage attendees to adopt sustainable behaviours through awareness initiatives integrated within our events.
Regarding global standards, our memberships in leading international organisations reinforce our commitment to applying best practices in planning, execution, safety, and quality management.
EW – What personal values or inspirations drive your leadership? My leadership philosophy draws its strength from a set of core personal values: commitment, transparency, and empowerment. Leadership is a responsibility, not a position, and true success is not measured by the number of events we organise, but by the impact we create on our team, our partners, and the broader community.
My primary source of inspiration is Saudi Vision 2030, which has motivated me to think beyond traditional boundaries and transform the exhibitions industry from a purely commercial activity into a national platform for development and innovation.
I am also dedicated to building a work environment that encourages initiative and continuous learning – one where every team member is given the space to express ideas and contribute to decision-making. Our values are not just written statements, but lived principles. EW
|
|
www. exhibitionworld. co. uk |
Issue 6 2025 23 |