The International MICE Tourism Summit concluded in Riyadh, marking a new

• More than 1,600 industry leaders, including 50 CEOs, 6 ministers and representatives from 73 countries, gathered at IMS24 to celebrate the industry’s power in driving greater economic progress.
• The 15 announcements and eight memorandums of understanding issued by leading exhibition entities mark significant real-time progress towards achieving the goals outlined in the Vision 2030 strategy.
• Saudi Arabia is drawing attention for its huge success in becoming a strong events hub and its future role as a global MICE destination.

The first International MICE Summit (IMS24) concluded grandly in Riyadh, bringing together 1,000 major industry leaders from the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) sector for three days of strategic panel discussions, exchanges and announcements to shape the global The future of the events industry.

The summit brought together more than 50 CEOs, 3 former international ministers, 7 mayors, 6 national ministers and more than 1,600 delegates from 73 countries, participating in 20 plenary sessions and 19 seminars, discussion awards The tourism industry is promoting cross-border cooperation, driving innovation, and creating new economic and business opportunities. The central theme of “Expanding Horizons” allowed participants to further explore the future of global events, sustainability, technological advancements and the economic potential of MICE travel as a catalyst for growth.

Reflecting on the success of the event, His Excellency Fahd Al Rasheed, Chairman of the Saudi Convention and Exhibition Authority (SCEGA), the organizer of the summit, said: “From IMS24 It’s clear that the Kingdom is the new frontier for the global MICE industry, with industry leaders opening their regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, bringing with them new IP and flagship events. We will build on the momentum of this event, with Government and private sector partners work together to ensure we have the right infrastructure, world-class human capital and vibrant ecosystem to deliver on our ambitions and grow the global MICE industry.”

During the three-day event, RX Global, Messe München and Clarion announced the opening of a new office in Saudi Arabia, followed by 15 announcements and 12 new events to be held in the Kingdom from 2025 onwards. Eight memorandums of understanding were signed, which will accelerate and consolidate the Kingdom’s position as a global events hub through partnerships that sustain collaboration between event organizers, regulators and public entities.

Key highlights of the discussion focused on the role of MICE in driving positive change, building global connections and creating long-term economic value. Events industry leaders share their visions for the future, including:

• His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, emphasized the strategic importance of the MICE industry in diversifying the Saudi economy under Vision 2030.
• Lord Stephen Carter, Group CEO of Informa PLC, shared valuable insights at IMS24 on the power of strategic partnerships in driving global growth, highlighting cross-sector collaboration, expansion into emerging markets such as the Middle East, and the role of digital transformation in fostering innovation. effect.
• Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, discussed the significant opportunities for incentive travel, encouraging global leaders to consider Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for corporate events and incentive travel.

• Clarion Events Group CEO Lisa Hannant reflects on the incredible experience at the inaugural MICE Summit in Riyadh, highlighting the event’s role in promoting industry partnerships and new opportunities in Saudi Arabia effect.
• Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi spoke about using events to promote progress in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the role of events in promoting sustainable development and long-term growth in the Kingdom.

On the final day, the outstanding achievements of leading companies in the Saudi events industry were recognized, with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development commended for its efforts in developing the events industry workforce, training more than 34,000 youth by 2024 and its commitment to working with industry partners Future plans for collaboration. Other entities recognized include the Human Resource Development Fund, Diploma Initiative Partners, Qalb Wahit and dmg Events, among others.

As Saudi Arabia continues to transform towards Vision 2030, the country is laying the foundation for a new era of MICE travel, where innovation, sustainability and strategic collaboration will drive economic growth and global partnerships.