Riyadh: Riyadh is witnessing intense activity as final preparations accelerate for the fifth edition of the Saudi Media Forum, scheduled to take place from February 2 to 4, 2026. At the Hilton Hotel, King Khalid International Airport, and along the city's main corridors, teams of journalists, technicians, organizers, and leaders are working in coordinated efforts, reflecting a city operating as a full-scale workshop to deliver a world-class media event befitting the Kingdom's global standing.
According to Saudi Press Agency, at the center of planning and decision-making, the office of Forum President Mohammed Al-Harthi continues to host a series of meetings with track leaders to finalize readiness. Al-Harthi is also conducting field tours of various work areas to monitor progress and motivate teams as the countdown to the forum's launch approaches.
Within the Media Center and Publishing Track, 21 journalists are producing news stories and reports to convey the forum's activities and outcomes to audiences worldwide. Supporting them is a four-member media coordination team responsible for outreach, managing invitations, and ensuring partners receive the necessary information for comprehensive coverage.
The Marketing Track includes 78 specialists, comprising designers, photographers, content creators, and producers, who are developing the forum's visual identity and digital presence. Their work includes producing videos, outdoor advertising, and social media content using advanced production techniques to enhance the forum's global visibility.
Innovation initiatives are also nearing completion. The team behind the Saudi Media Innovation Bootcamp (Saudi MIB) is finalizing coordination with finalists ahead of their presentations to judging panels. In parallel, participants in the Media Ambassadors Program are supporting organizational efforts, highlighting the capabilities of Saudi youth in managing major international media events.
In the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX) track, engineers, designers, and sales specialists are completing the setup of exhibitor booths for local and international companies. The team is coordinating equipment deliveries and preparing the 'Launch Zone,' where companies will unveil the latest media technology innovations.
On the hospitality front, a 200-member guest services team has been deployed at the airport and the Hilton Hotel to welcome international participants and facilitate logistics, supported by a protocol team responsible for VIP arrangements.
Behind the scenes, 100 operations staff are working continuously to build stages, install large screens, and provide logistical services. They are supported by a 20-member graphics and visual content team designing display elements, while the theater management team reviews session content and coordinates technical requirements to ensure the smooth delivery of panel discussions.
Complementing these efforts is a production and documentation team of 50 members, along with 20 technical specialists responsible for information systems, and the internal events team adding final aesthetic touches. Together, these teams form an integrated operational framework spanning multiple locations across Riyadh, as the Saudi Media Forum 2026 approaches its launch.
