Saudi Hospitality Growth in Focus at WTM Spotlight Riyadh
Saudi Arabia’s hospitality market, valued at US$27.14 billion in 2025, is projected to reach US$54.32 billion, according to data from Mordor Intelligence. Growth is being supported by Vision 2030 initiatives, ongoing hotel development and rising travel demand from Saudi travellers domestically and internationally.
These trends will be discussed at the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh, scheduled to take place from 8–10 September at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Center (RFECC). The event will bring together regional and international travel stakeholders to examine developments within the Kingdom’s hotel sector and outbound travel market.
Mordor Intelligence estimates that Saudi Arabia had approximately 167,500 hotel keys as of Q1 2025, with 61% positioned in higher-end segments. An additional 99,500 rooms are planned or under construction, of which 78% are expected to be in the premium category.
Aligned with Vision 2030 goals, the Kingdom is targeting 362,000 hotel rooms by the end of the decade to support a national objective of welcoming 150 million domestic and international visitors annually. Chain hotels represented 58% of the hospitality market in 2024, while luxury accommodation accounted for 37% of total market value.
Religious tourism continues to be a key driver of hotel demand, with Saudi Arabia aiming to attract 30 million Umrah pilgrims annually by 2030. Ongoing developments in Makkah and Madinah, alongside technology-led initiatives such as AI-supported crowd management under the Smart Hajj programme, are contributing to capacity expansion during peak travel periods.
According to Knight Frank, 40% of upcoming hotel supply, totalling 79,080 rooms, is expected to be delivered by international hotel operators. Brands involved include Accor, Hilton Worldwide, Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Radisson Hotel Group, with development activity concentrated in Makkah, Riyadh, and Madinah.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh will also examine the travel preferences of Saudi outbound travellers and their influence on international hospitality markets. Research from IMARC indicates that the GCC outbound tourism market is projected to grow from US$71 billion in 2024 to US$138 billion by 2033, with Saudi travellers forming a significant share.
Data from WEGO shows that over 80% of Saudi travellers chose hotels during the summer 2025 season, while more than 10% opted for apartments or aparthotels. Four-star hotels accounted for nearly 45% of searches, followed by 19% for five-star accommodation.
Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market and WTM Spotlight Riyadh, said: “Saudi Arabia hospitality sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by a long-term national vision, robust investor confidence, and increasing demand from both visitors to the Kingdom and Saudi travellers abroad. WTM Spotlight Riyadh aims to create a focused environment where these developments can be thoroughly explored and meaningful connections can be made across the travel and hospitality value chain. For international travel brands, including hotel groups and destinations, the event provides a timely opportunity to understand the sources of demand and how to effectively engage with one of the world's most rapidly transforming markets,” concluded Curtis.
WTM Spotlight Riyadh will feature an exhibition, conference sessions and structured networking formats addressing market trends, investment considerations and changing traveller expectations. Confirmed exhibitors include Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower, Maden Hotel, and Jabal Omar Development Company.
The event is expected to host over 450 exhibitors, welcome 6,500 regional and international visitors, and include 150 hosted buyers.
As part of the wider WTM portfolio, which includes WTM London, WTM Africa, WTM Latin America and Arabian Travel Market, WTM Spotlight Riyadh will serve as a regional platform for travel and tourism industry engagement.
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