…Riyadh Air, World Expo 2030, FIFA 2034 Drive a Tourism Boom as Türkiye, China, India, Italy, and Egypt Rush to Invest

…Here’s new facts you need to know

SAUDI – Saudi Arabia Sets the Stage for a Hospitality Revolution, Riyadh Air, World Expo 2030, and FIFA 2034 Drive a Tourism Boom as Türkiye, China, India, Italy, and Egypt Rush to Invest : Here’s new facts you need to know Friday, February 7, 2025

Hospitality and tourism sectors of Saudi Arabia are entering a transformative era, driven by Vision 2030 and a surge in global events.

The Kingdom is witnessing a historic wave of investment in its hospitality infrastructure, including the development of 320,000 new hotel rooms by 2030. This boom is necessary to accommodate 150 million annual tourists, a target set by the Saudi government as part of its broader ambition to make tourism a 10 percent contributor to GDP.

The 13th Edition of Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia: A Key Industry Event

Industry professionals are now gearing up for the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia, which is set to return as a standalone event from April 8-10, 2025, at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre (RICEC). Organisers of the event, dmg events & KAOUN International, have positioned it as a crucial meeting point for businesses aiming to capitalize on Saudi Arabia’s rapid hospitality expansion.

With exhibitors from 26 countries, including Türkiye, China, India, and Italy, the expo is a major opportunity for international hotel chains, suppliers, and tourism operators to enter the Saudi market. Some of the major industry players confirmed include RAK Porcelain, BAAL, Palatino, Technogym International, Sealy, Sleep High, Port Store, True International, Anatomy Fitness, and Egyptian Porcelain.

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism and Hospitality Market Growth

The Kingdom’s hospitality industry is experiencing unprecedented investment, with 67% of new hotel developments being upscale or luxury 4- and 5-star properties. This is part of Saudi Arabia’s plan to position itself as a luxury tourism destination, competing with top-tier global hotspots such as Dubai, Singapore, and Paris.

Several factors are driving this rapid expansion:

Major international events: Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2027 Asian Cup, FIFA World Cup 2034, and World Expo 2030. The World Expo alone is expected to attract 40 million visitors and contribute $94.6 billion to the Saudi economy.
New airline launch: The 2025 launch of Riyadh Air is expected to dramatically increase international travel, with plans to connect over 100 destinations across six continents.

Luxury tourism push: Saudi Arabia is investing in premium hospitality experiences, including hotel management agreements with major global brands. Upscale refurbishments and high-end development projects are creating a new standard for tourism in the region.

Implications for the Global Travel Industry

Saudi Arabia’s aggressive expansion in the hospitality sector is reshaping global travel patterns. Tourists who traditionally looked toward Europe, the U.S., or Southeast Asia for premium travel experiences are now considering Saudi Arabia as a new alternative. The impact on global airlines, luxury tourism operators, and travel service providers will be significant.

This expansion will also create competitive pressure for nearby destinations such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which have long dominated the Middle East’s high-end tourism market. Airlines and travel agencies worldwide are expected to introduce new Saudi-focused travel packages, increasing accessibility and affordability for global travelers.

Opportunities for Investors and Tourism Stakeholders

The Saudi tourism boom is not just an opportunity for travelers—it is also a major opening for investors, hoteliers, and travel service providers. The Hotel & Hospitality Expo will provide a crucial platform for industry professionals looking to secure deals, expand their business footprint, and understand the Kingdom’s evolving tourism landscape.

The Restaurant and Café Owners Association, with 3,500+ industry members, has also recognized the event as a key platform for business networking and investment in the food and beverage sector. The show will also feature the Hospitality Leaders’ Summit, with top executives from Diriyah Company, Marriott International, and Hilton, offering insights into the future of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.

The Role of Exhibition Industry in Travel Growth

As global tourism and business travel intersect, major industry events like the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia play a key role in shaping future travel trends. Events like this are no longer just trade shows; they are major economic catalysts that fuel tourism growth. The role of international exhibitions in boosting business tourism, luxury travel, and global investment cannot be understated.

According to dmg events, the growing exhibition industry in the Kingdom is directly linked to the rise in business tourism and investment-driven travel, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s status as a global hospitality powerhouse.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Saudi Arabia’s Hospitality Sector

Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector is undergoing a historic transformation, with record-breaking investment, world-class events, and a commitment to redefining luxury travel. As the Kingdom prepares to welcome millions of new tourists, the global travel industry must adapt to the rapid changes and opportunities this presents.

The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia 2025 is set to be a defining event, providing insights, business opportunities, and a firsthand look at the Kingdom’s ambitious hospitality vision.

With the stage set for unparalleled tourism growth, the world is now watching as Saudi Arabia emerges as one of the most important travel destinations of the next decade.

Source: Travel and Tour World