Fifth Saudi Media Forum to Convene Global Media Leaders in February 2026
Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: 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 February 2 to 4, 2026, bringing together prominent global media leaders to explore the future of the media industry amid rapid global transformation.
Held under the theme “Media in a Shaping World,” this year’s forum holds special significance as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of Saudi Vision 2030, providing a platform to review national achievements and examine the evolving role of media in supporting the Kingdom’s long-term development and transformation agenda.
More than 300 media leaders, experts, and decision-makers from over 20 countries across four continents are expected to participate, further reinforcing the forum’s position as a leading international platform for dialogue on global media trends, challenges, and opportunities. The forum’s agenda includes more than 150 specialized dialogue sessions covering topics such as 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 address crisis communication, digital media infrastructure, audience engagement trends, investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and the evolving relationship between media and emerging technologies.
A key highlight of the forum is the Saudi Media Award, which features 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 combining 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 led by global experts.
Complementing the main program are several specialized initiatives, including the Saudi Media Innovation Camp, the SMF GROW UP program supporting emerging media enterprises, the Idea Lab for creative concept development, SMF Connect to enhance international media cooperation, the Forum Spotlight initiative to ensure year-round engagement, and the Media Ambassadors program aimed at preparing a new generation of Saudi media professionals.
Through its comprehensive programming and initiatives, the Saudi Media Forum underscores the Kingdom’s growing role as a hub for media and creative leadership, supporting the expansion of creative industries and the digital economy, empowering Saudi talent in advanced media fields, and amplifying Saudi Arabia’s global voice through balanced and impactful narratives.
