Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences, is preparing to host the first International Meetings Summit (IMS24) at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City "Misk" in Riyadh, from December 15 to 17. Held under the theme "Boundless Horizons," the event will bring together more than 1,000 global leaders from the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry, forming a global platform to shape the future of this fast-growing sector.

Innovative Programming to Foster Global Cooperation

Over three days, the summit will gather public- and private-sector leaders from around the world, along with suppliers, associations, major project leaders and innovators. The program will feature plenary sessions, panel discussions, innovation labs and collaborative hubs designed to foster networking and cooperation among participants and explore innovation opportunities shaping the sector's future.

The Kingdom's Vision for the Meetings and Exhibitions Industry

Fahad bin Abdulmohsen Al-Rasheed, Chairman of the Board of the General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences, said the summit seeks to reimagine the future of the MICE industry and meet the needs of a changing world, noting that Saudi Arabia now has one of the fastest-growing meetings and conventions sectors among G20 nations. He added that hosting the summit in the Kingdom is part of its efforts to cement its position as a leading global destination for tourism and events.

Growth of the Kingdom's Tourism and Events Sector

The Kingdom's meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector grew by a notable 15% in 2023, with around 17,000 events held and 110 million visitors welcomed, helping tourism contribute 6% of GDP — equivalent to SAR 255 billion ($68 billion).

This growth is being reinforced by expanding infrastructure and transport projects, along with major developments delivering exceptional experiences that strengthen the Kingdom's standing as an international destination. The General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences also announced an incentive package worth SAR 588 million to support major events scheduled for 2025.