4,500 Media Professionals Participated in Its Previous Editions… The Saudi Media Forum: An Annual Event Shaping the Future of Media

Since its inaugural edition in 2019, the Saudi Media Forum has established itself as a prominent annual media and cultural event, attracting media professionals and industry experts from Saudi Arabia and around the world. Over 4,500 Saudi and international media figures have participated in its previous editions, engaging in discussions that drive the development of the media sector and lay out a strategic roadmap for the future of media, based on data, trends, passion, and innovation. The first edition of the forum took place on December 2, 2019, under the theme "Media Industry: Opportunities and Challenges", bringing together CEOs, media executives, and professionals from local, regional, and global media organizations. The event featured over 50 scientific sessions, discussions, and workshops, with participation from more than 1,000 media professionals. Key sessions included "The Role of Journalism in Leading Change," "Media Content and Audience Behavior," and "The Responsibility of Journalism in Fast-Paced Digital News." The second edition, held on February 20, 2023, was themed "Media in a Transforming World" and featured 60 sessions and workshops, presenting over 100 research papers focusing on media content development and the industry’s evolution. The forum welcomed more than 1,500 media professionals, academics, and policymakers from Saudi Arabia and abroad, attracting a record-breaking 10,000 visitors. Discussions covered a broad spectrum of topics, including the present and future of media, global trends, and best practices from industry leaders. The third edition, held from February 20-21, 2024, was also organized under the theme "Media in a Transforming World", in collaboration between the Saudi Broadcasting Authority and the Saudi Journalists Association. With around 2,000 media professionals in attendance, the forum hosted 60 specialized sessions and workshops, led by 150 distinguished speakers, including ministers, officials, and international media experts. Discussions encompassed various aspects of modern media, including digital media, marketing, mobile journalism, television, news writing, and the evolution of Arab media. The fourth edition of the Saudi Media Forum, set to launch on February 19, 2025, will further build on the success of its predecessors. It will run alongside the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX), reinforcing its status as a groundbreaking event that blends creativity with technology to foster strategic media partnerships and drive sustainable development. The forum continues to serve as a global platform, uniting media leaders and industry pioneers under one roof in Riyadh. A key highlight of the event is the Saudi Media Forum Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in the media industry, encouraging competition, and promoting excellence in content creation. This year’s fourth edition aims to keep pace with the rapid transformations in the media landscape, featuring over 200 distinguished speakers, 250 global companies, more than 80 sessions and workshops, and six immersive interactive experiences. Additionally, the forum will introduce **innovative