The Saudi Media Forum 2026 kicks off with the launch of 12 high-quality initiatives
Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God protect him, His Excellency the Minister of Media, Mr. Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossari, inaugurated today at the Hilton Hotel in Riyadh the fifth edition of the Saudi Media Forum 2026 , held under the theme “Media in a Changing World.” This major event reaffirms Riyadh’s position as an influential media capital, bringing together more than 300 media leaders and experts from 20 countries to discuss the transformations of the global media landscape.
The context of media transformation and Vision 2030
The convening of this forum cannot be viewed in isolation from the comprehensive development drive underway in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030. The media sector has transformed from a mere conduit for events to a shaper of them, and a key driver of the national economy and soft power. This edition aims to solidify the concept of “new media,” which blends technology and values. Through these platforms, the Kingdom seeks to lead the global dialogue on the future of media and guide its ethical compass in the age of artificial intelligence, thereby enhancing its international presence as a political, economic, and media powerhouse.
Humanity and values versus algorithms
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Information emphasized that royal patronage lends the forum profound strategic significance, stressing that the greatest challenge today lies in preserving "value" amidst the dominance of the "attention economy." Al-Dossari pointed out that the Saudi vision differs fundamentally from models that prioritize sensationalism over content, affirming that the Kingdom embraces media that respects the intellect of its audience and safeguards its youth, viewing human beings not merely as a means to increase numbers, but as the ultimate goal of development and awareness.
Launching 12 high-quality initiatives and smart partnerships
The ceremony witnessed the minister's announcement of a massive package of 12 initiatives aimed at empowering the sector and raising its efficiency, most notably:
- Media Innovation Camp (Saudi MIB): In partnership with “SDAIA”, to focus on augmented journalism and the virtual broadcaster.
- Entrepreneurship initiatives: such as the “Tamkeen” and “Numu” initiatives to support startups and transform ideas into sustainable projects.
- AI Principles Document: To establish the responsible use of modern technologies in media.
- Saudipedia in 5 languages: Expanding the encyclopedia to include English, French, Chinese, Russian and German, to be the trusted reference for the Kingdom globally.
Investing in minds and making an impact
Believing that human capital is the true wealth, the Ministry announced the “Media Scholarship Program” to train 100 talented individuals at top international universities. It also revealed the launch of 30 documentaries under the “Treasures” initiative and the hosting of 2,000 content creators at the “Impact” forum in Qiddiya, reflecting a strategic direction to create a global impact extending from Riyadh to all corners of the world.
Future Media Exhibition (FOMEX)
Concurrently with the forum sessions, the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX), the largest of its kind in the region, commenced with the participation of over 250 local and international companies. The exhibition provides an ideal platform to showcase the latest technologies in broadcasting and digital production, opening up broad prospects for investment partnerships that will strengthen the Kingdom's media infrastructure and support its transition towards a digital economy.
The ceremony concluded with the honoring of the winners of the Saudi Media Forum Award, in a scene that reflects the Kingdom’s appreciation for creative people, and confirms that Riyadh has become, thanks to the support of the wise leadership, an incubator of creativity and a beacon of responsible media that serves humanity and builds bridges between cultures.
