Events Sector in Saudi ArabiaOne of The Most Happening and Exciting Sectors with a Plethora of Untapped Opportunities

The future of the events industry in Saudi

Over the past four years, Saudi Arabia has hosted an astounding 120 million people at events around the country, clearly illustrating the entertainment sector’s potential and appeal. However, this is just the beginning. With a streamlined licensing process and a commitment to growth, the Kingdom is a perfect destination for your next event venture.

Why choose Saudi?

The numbers speak for themselves. From a valuation of $6.1 billion in 2021, the events industry is projected to skyrocket to $17.6 billion by 2031.

Simplified licensing

Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has implemented a new online system that makes event licensing a breeze. Following the launch of the new system, the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has issued over 11,000 licenses for a range of entertainment events.

Diverse audience

The ages 21–40 demographic is leading the charge, having contributed over $489.8 billion to the market in 2021. Projections estimate a 10% rise in spending in the next 10 years. This young demographic has both varied interests and spending power, which presents a golden opportunity for companies within the entertainment industry.

Sports boom

Now is the time to tap into the sports segment — the biggest contributor to the market in 2021! We’re likely to see this trend continue in the future as the government has announced more investments into private sector sports clubs, sponsorships, and tournaments — think FIFA, the World Cup, and more.

Some interesting events happening in Saudi Arabia

Get an idea about the diversity of the event sector in Saudi Arabia from the list of interested events hosted in KSA.

Business

• Emerging Tech Summit | November 8-9, 2023 | Riyadh
• Leap 2024 | March 4-7, 2024 | Riyadh
• Saudi International Investment Forum | October 29-31, 2023 | Riyadh
• Global AI Summit | February 13-14, 2024 | Riyadh
• Future Minerals Forum | January 24-26, 2024 | Riyadh

Sports

• Formula E World Championship | January 29, 2024 | Diriyah
• Saudi International Golf | February 1-5, 2024 | Riyadh
• Dakar Rally | December 31, 2023 - January 15, 2024 | Yanbu - Dammam
• Super Globe | October 12-18, 2023 | Dammam
• Saudi Esports Summit | February 15-16, 2024 | Riyadh

Music

• MDL Beast Soundstorm | December 1-3, 2023 | Riyadh
• Riyadh Season (various concerts and other events) | October 2023 - March 2024 | Riyadh
• Jeddah Season (various concerts and other events) | June 2023 - August 2024 | Jeddah
• Winter at Tantora (various concerts and other events) | November 2023 - February 2024 | Al Ula
• MDL Beast XP (various concerts and other events) | Throughout the year | Riyadh

Other

• Riyadh International Book Fair | October 1-10, 2023 | Riyadh
• Jeddah Film Festival | April 17-24, 2024 | Jeddah
• Diriyah Season (various cultural events) | October 2023 - March 2024 | Diriyah
• Sharqiah Season (various cultural events) | November 2023 - February 2024 | Sharqiah Province
• Red Sea International Film Festival | December 1-8, 2023 | Jeddah

Future outlook

Saudi Arabia's events industry is thriving. High-profile events are drawing in global audiences, boosting Saudi’s international relations and local economy. Enhanced infrastructure, cultural exchanges, and media spotlight make the Kingdom a must-visit destination. This paints a bright future for event organizers and tourists alike.