Saudi Arabia To Host Regular World Economic Forum Global Meeting In Riyadh Starting Spring 2026

Saudi Arabia is set to host a regular high-level World Economic Forum (WEF) global meeting in Riyadh, with the inaugural event scheduled for Spring 2026. This announcement was made by Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim and WEF President Børge Brende during the final day of the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The upcoming WEF meeting in Riyadh will provide a crucial platform for global leaders, experts, and decision-makers from various sectors. Participants from public and private sectors, academia, international organizations, and civil society will gather to tackle pressing global challenges. This event underscores Saudi Arabia's role as a hub for dialogue and innovation on the world stage.

Minister Alibrahim emphasized that hosting this regular global meeting highlights Saudi Arabia's emergence as a significant platform for dialogue and collaboration. He stated: "Hosting a regular global World Economic Forum meeting in the Kingdom is a testament to the global platform for dialogue, collaboration and innovation that Saudi Arabia has become, and that the World Economic Forum continues to be."

Alibrahim also expressed optimism about the future: "In this critical juncture for the global economy, we are not only inspired by the opportunities before us but also deeply confident that our collective efforts will forge a brighter, more inclusive and more prosperous future for all. We look forward to welcoming the global community again in Saudi Arabia in the spring of 2026."

This development builds on the success of the World Economic Forum Special Meeting held in Riyadh in April 2024. It reinforces Saudi Arabia's position as a central player in shaping global agendas. The Kingdom's leadership aims to foster dialogues between developed and developing economies, driving inclusive growth worldwide.

Børge Brende remarked on this milestone: "The World Economic Forum is looking forward to coming back to the Kingdom in 2026. To close the 55th World Economic Forum with this announcement puts us on a strong course for the years ahead." He highlighted that progress made now will have long-lasting impacts.

A Cornerstone Event

The WEF Global Meeting in Riyadh is poised to become a key event on the international calendar. It symbolizes Saudi Arabia's role as a bridge between different regions and cultures, promoting constructive dialogue and action. The Kingdom's commitment to addressing complex global issues makes it an ideal host for such gatherings.

This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s determination to play an active role in fostering global cooperation. By hosting these discussions, it aims to contribute significantly to shaping solutions for worldwide challenges.

With inputs from SPA