Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the 19th edition of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (Riyadh 2024), running from December 15 to 19, 2024, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh. The global forum brings together governments, the private sector, the nonprofit sector, and experts and innovators from around the world to discuss policies and current trends in internet governance.

Broad International Participation

The forum is expected to draw more than 10,000 participants from 160 countries, along with 1,000 international speakers taking part in 300 sessions and workshops. It focuses on strengthening international cooperation in digital innovation and striking a balance between harnessing innovation and addressing digital risks, in support of the UN's sustainable development goals.

Forum Themes

Held under the theme "Innovating Together to Shape Tomorrow," the forum will address four main themes:

  1. Harnessing innovation and balancing risks in digital space.
  2. Enhancing digital contribution to peace, development and sustainability.
  3. Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age.
  4. Improving digital governance for the internet we want.

These themes aim to build a shared understanding of how to maximize the benefits of the global internet and address its accompanying challenges, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to developing international digital policy and strengthening digital sustainability.

Elevating the Kingdom's Standing

Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha said the forum represents an exceptional platform for supporting international digital cooperation, noting that hosting it reinforces the Kingdom's position as a global hub for digital innovation and policy-making.

He added that the forum aims to exchange ideas and expertise among experts from various sectors, contributing to thriving communities and achieving sustainable development through digital solutions.

Participating Organizations

The forum is being organized in cooperation with:

  • The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
  • The Communications, Space and Technology Commission.
  • King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology.
  • The Digital Government Authority.

Those interested in taking part or learning more about the forum can visit the official website at igfriyadh2024.sa.