Saudi Media Forum 2026: Riyadh brings together global media leaders
Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God protect him, the capital city of Riyadh is preparing to host the fifth edition of the Saudi Media Forum 2026 , starting next Monday, February 2nd, and continuing until February 4th, 2026. This prominent event, themed "Media in a Changing World," underscores the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's position as a leading media hub in the region and the world.
An exceptional event that aligns with Vision 2030
The convening of this edition acquires special and historical importance, as it coincides with the tenth anniversary of the launch of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Minister of Media, Mr. Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossari, explained that this coincidence gives the forum exceptional symbolism; Saudi media is no longer limited to reporting events, but has transformed, thanks to the ambitious vision, into an influence maker, a strategic partner in development, and a true reflection of the civilizational transformation that the Kingdom is experiencing.
The media sector is one of the main pillars of soft power that countries rely on to enhance their international presence, and this is embodied in the generous royal patronage that reflects the wise leadership’s belief in the centrality of this sector in shaping the features of the future.
A rich agenda and a global presence
The forum is witnessing broad participation, with over 300 leading media figures, experts, academics, and specialists from within the Kingdom and abroad. The forum's schedule includes more than 150 dialogue sessions and workshops aimed at exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the media industry.
In a related context, the Chairman of the Saudi Media Forum, Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Harthi, affirmed that the fifth edition comes in response to the changes of the current era, particularly with the dominance of artificial intelligence and the evolving patterns of public information consumption. The forum aims to transform these complex challenges into sustainable opportunities, focusing on how to restore trust in the media message and build impactful and insightful narratives.
Launch of "Boulevard 2030" and the "Fomex" exhibition
One of the most significant additions to the 2026 edition is the unveiling of the "Boulevard 2030" zone for the first time, which will be held alongside the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX). Through this zone, the forum's halls will be transformed into a vibrant showcase of major national achievements, highlighting the success stories of mega-projects such as NEOM, Diriyah Gate, and Qiddiya. This integration of media and development projects makes the forum a vital bridge connecting visitors and media professionals with the Kingdom's thriving reality.
Riyadh: The Capital of Arab and International Media
This massive media gathering solidifies Riyadh's position as a capital of media decision-making, bringing together creative minds and decision-makers under one roof to chart a roadmap for the future of media. These steps aim to enhance the Kingdom's evolving media environment, keeping pace with rapid geopolitical and technological changes, and transforming the media landscape from one of content consumption to one of leadership and innovation.
