Saudi Media Forum 2026 to spotlight decade of Vision 2030 and future of global media
2026-02-01 - 13:36
RIYADH — Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the fifth edition of the Saudi Media Forum will be held in Riyadh from Feb. 2 to 4, 2026, bringing together global media leaders to examine the future of the industry in a rapidly changing world.Held under the theme “Media in a Shaping World,” this year’s forum carries added significance as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of Saudi Vision 2030, offering a platform to reflect on national achievements and the media’s evolving role in supporting the Kingdom’s long-term transformation agenda.More than 300 media leaders, experts, and decision-makers from over 20 countries across four continents are expected to participate, reinforcing the forum’s status as a leading international gathering for dialogue on global media trends, challenges, and opportunities. **media[2655778]** The agenda features more than 150 specialized dialogue sessions covering a wide range of topics, including the future of global media, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, credibility and influence-building, media and entertainment economics, innovation in storytelling, and advanced production techniques.Additional discussions will focus on crisis communication, digital media infrastructure, audience engagement trends, investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and the evolving relationship between media and emerging technologies.Among the forum’s flagship initiatives is the Saudi Media Award, which includes four main tracks and 14 categories across the media sector.Notably, the award introduces the world’s first category dedicated to AI-generated content, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead in integrating artificial intelligence into advanced content production by blending human creativity with cutting-edge technology.The forum will also host the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX), bringing together government entities and local and international companies to showcase the latest media technologies and products, alongside panel discussions and workshops featuring global speakers.A range of specialized initiatives will complement the forum, including the Saudi Media Innovation Camp, the SMF GROW UP program supporting emerging media companies, the Idea Lab for creative concept development, SMF Connect to enhance international media cooperation, the Forum Spotlight initiative to sustain year-round engagement, and the Media Ambassadors program aimed at preparing a new generation of Saudi media professionals.Through its programming and initiatives, the Saudi Media Forum reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a hub for media and creative leadership, supporting the growth of creative industries and the digital economy, empowering Saudi talent in advanced media fields, and amplifying the Kingdom’s global voice through balanced and compelling narratives.