Saudi Media Forum: A Future Vision for Impact Industry and the Economy

Amidst the major transformations taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Media Forum as a strategic platform that not only reports on events but also contributes to shaping the future. As its launch approaches, all eyes are on Riyadh, which has established itself as the capital of Arab media. The upcoming edition of the forum will discuss concepts that transcend the traditional roles of journalism, touching upon the core of economic development and the building of national identity, and looking ahead to 2026 and beyond.

Media as a pillar of the national economy and Vision 2030

In its key session titled "Media as a Pivotal Force in Societal and Economic Development," the forum highlights the transformation of the media sector from a mere communication tool to a strategic industry that bolsters the national economy. This trend aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 , which seeks to diversify income sources, as the media is now viewed as a promising sector that contributes to increasing GDP and creating thousands of job opportunities for young Saudi talent.

The sessions will discuss how to transform media institutions into growth engines that support innovation, enhance competitiveness, and attract foreign investment, thus establishing the concept of "media economics" as a fundamental pillar in the structure of the modern state.

The Integration of People and Place: A Narrative of Saudi Identity

In another, more in-depth session, "When Media Becomes an Integrative Task for People and Place," the complex relationship between urban planning and storytelling is explored. With the Kingdom's massive urban development, from projects like Qiddiya to NEOM and Diriyah, the media's role becomes crucial in humanizing these projects and connecting them to the hearts and minds of citizens and visitors alike.

This section focuses on:

• Marketing the place: Investing in the Kingdom's natural and historical assets and transforming them into visual stories that attract global tourism.
• Strengthening belonging: Linking national achievements to their tangible impact on an individual's daily life.
• Soft power: Exporting Saudi culture to the world through professional content that reflects the aesthetics of the place and the spirit of the Saudi people.

Addressing the challenges of the digital age

The forum does not overlook the challenges posed by the digital revolution; development media today faces the necessity of adapting to artificial intelligence and big data technologies. Discussions emphasize the importance of adopting modern technological tools that maintain the integrity and credibility of the content, while ensuring that development messages reach new generations in a contemporary language that resonates with their aspirations.

The beginning of a new media era

The Saudi Media Forum, taking place from February 2nd to 4th, affirms that the future of media lies in building strategic alliances that integrate economics, culture, and urban planning. Through this comprehensive vision, the Kingdom seeks to present a global model for responsible media that balances development requirements with human needs, and establishes the Saudi narrative as an icon of success and leadership on the international stage.