Saudi Media Forum 2025: A Global Platform Shaping the Future of Media

Saudi Arabia is set to host the fourth edition of the Saudi Media Forum 2025, taking place in Riyadh from February 19 to 21. This highly anticipated event reaffirms its status as the largest media gathering in the region, serving as a global platform that brings together key decision-makers, industry experts, and creative minds from across the media sector. Amid the rapid digital transformation reshaping the media landscape, the forum presents a unique opportunity to anticipate future trends, strengthen strategic partnerships, and explore the latest developments and challenges affecting the industry, particularly the rise of new technologies and their impact on global media. Advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision for a Thriving Media Industry Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Harthi, Chairman of the Saudi Media Forum and CEO of the Saudi Broadcasting Authority, emphasized that the forum aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. It aims to position the Kingdom as a leading regional and international media hub, support digital transformation in the industry, and foster investments in local content. These efforts contribute to developing a robust, sustainable media sector, empowering local media talent, driving innovation in content creation, and expanding global media partnerships—all in line with Vision 2030’s broader goals of boosting creative industries and stimulating economic growth in media and entertainment. Since its inception, the Saudi Media Forum has established itself as a pivotal event on the regional and international media map, driving media evolution through innovation, technology, and collaboration. The forum plays a key role in bridging global media institutions and reinforcing the media’s contribution to sustainable development. High-Profile Attendees and Keynote Speakers This year’s edition will welcome a distinguished lineup of media leaders and decision-makers, including: Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, Deputy Chairman of the National Development Fund and Chairman of the National Transformation Committee Representatives from leading media and technology organizations Al-Harthi stated: “With the support and supervision of Minister of Media Salman bin Youssef Al-Dosari, the Saudi Media Forum marks a major milestone in content development and international participation. We are working to enhance the role of media in keeping pace with digital transformation, providing a platform where experts and creatives can shape the future of the industry.” This year’s forum will expand its impact through specialized panel discussions, global partnerships, and the region’s largest media exhibition, showcasing cutting-edge media innovations. Key Sessions and Themes The forum will feature a range of high-level discussions covering pressing media topics, including: AI and the Future of Journalism: Exploring how AI is reshaping media production, digital journalism, and content creation. Media Economics in the Digital Age: Examining new business models in media, digital transformation, and financial sustainability. Media Misinformation and Credibility: Addressing strategies to combat fake news and the role of media institutions in rebuilding public trust. FIFA World Cup 2034 and Global Media: Discussing the role of media in promoting major international events and fostering cultural exchange. Entertainment Industry and Digital Streaming: Analyzing the evolution of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Shahid, and their impact on content consumption. The forum will also host an elite lineup of international speakers, including: Boris Johnson, Former UK Prime Minister Vinod Nair, CEO of Money Smart Sam Mathews, CEO of Fnatic Fares Akkad, Regional Director at Meta Juan Señor, Head of Innovation at The Innovation Media Consulting Group Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX) Coinciding with the forum, Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX) will be the largest media-focused exhibition in the Middle East, showcasing advanced technologies and innovative media experiences. The exhibition will feature three dedicated zones: Emerging Technologies Zone: Highlighting virtual and augmented reality applications in media and audience engagement. AI and Media Innovation Zone: Showcasing the latest AI-driven tools for news production, distribution, and digital storytelling. Media Production Zone: Offering live demonstrations of next-generation filming, broadcasting, and post-production technologies. The exhibition will attract major industry players, including Google, Microsoft, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Reuters, Bloomberg, and will mark the debut participation of a U.S. news agency in a Middle Eastern media event, facilitating networking and strategic partnerships within the industry. Strategic Initiatives Supporting Vision 2030 The forum will launch several groundbreaking initiatives aimed at empowering local talent, fostering media collaboration, and driving innovation, including: "Bridges of Media" Initiative: Strengthening international media cooperation by forging strategic partnerships and facilitating knowledge exchange between global and local media professionals. "Media Ambassadors" Initiative: Now in its second edition, this initiative aims to nurture young media talent by providing specialized training programs and career opportunities in the media sector. The success of the first edition led to several participants becoming part of the forum’s organizing team. "Spotlight Initiative": Featuring two key tracks: Media Projects Track: Showcasing groundbreaking media initiatives that highlight Saudi Arabia’s transformation, including World Cup 2034, the Red Sea Project, and Founding Day celebrations. Young Talent Track: Recognizing outstanding national talent in media and creative industries. Saudi Media Forum Awards In recognition of excellence in the media industry, the forum will honor outstanding individuals and institutions through the Saudi Media Forum Awards, spanning 15 key categories, including: Best Investigative Report Best TV Program Best Talk Show Podcast Best Digital Content Media Personality of the Year For the first time, the awards will introduce an interactive public voting system, allowing the audience to vote for select categories such as Best Digital Content and Best Podcast, enhancing engagement and reflecting the influence of public opinion on the media landscape. A Landmark Event for the Future of Media The Saudi Media Forum 2025 stands as a landmark global event, seamlessly integrating knowledge, technology, and creativity to shape the future of the media industry. Through thought-provoking discussions, strategic partnerships, an immersive exhibition, pioneering initiatives, and the prestigious media awards, the forum plays a crucial role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s media transformation. As part of Vision 2030, the forum reinforces Riyadh’s position as a leading media hub in the region, driving innovation and global engagement in the media sector.