Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary inaugurated today the fifth edition of the Saudi Media Forum 2026 at the Hilton Hotel in Riyadh. The forum is held under the theme “Media in an Evolving World.”
In his opening address, the Minister emphasized that the royal patronage represents a source of pride and honor for media professionals, as it elevates the forum’s stature and deepens its vision. He noted that this generous patronage reflects a profound belief in media as a tool for awareness and a driver of development.
Global Participation, Rich Dialogue Agenda
The Saudi Media Forum brings together more than 300 media leaders and experts from over 20 countries. Through more than 150 specialized dialogue sessions, the forum explores the intersection of media with politics, the economy, culture, technology, and innovation. The participation of international and regional think tanks highlights the Kingdom’s leadership role in the global media industry.
FOMEX
The forum is accompanied by the creative edition of the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX), featuring over 250 local and international companies. FOMEX serves as a platform for showcasing the latest media technologies, innovations, and services, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a hub for media advancement.
The Minister stressed the media’s responsibility toward younger generations, noting that protecting children in the digital age is not achieved through restriction or isolation. Instead, it requires creating ethical and value-driven media environments that safeguard psychological and cognitive balance. He underscored that media content should build awareness rather than serve as mere consumable material, preparing children to engage confidently with the world while preserving their identity and moral compass.
Flagship Media Initiatives
During the forum, the Minister announced the launch of 12 flagship initiatives. The most notable was the Saudi Media Innovation Bootcamp (Saudi MIB), which focuses on augmented journalism, intelligent content creation, and virtual presenters. The bootcamp is delivered in partnership with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).
Additional initiatives include the Tamkeen Initiative, which supports entrepreneurial ideas and startups. The Numo Initiative was also launched in partnership with the Kafalah Program to transform media ideas into sustainable business models.
AI Principles in Media
He also announced the issuance of the Artificial Intelligence Principles in Media document, developed in partnership with SDAIA. The document aims to promote the responsible use of advanced technologies and pave the way for broader activation, support, and empowerment within the media sector.
The Minister revealed that more than 2,000 content creators and influencers from over 90 countries will participate in the Influence Track, as part of the second edition of The ImpaQ Impact Makers Forum, to be held in Qiddiya City. The event will deliver a unique experience through creatively designed and managed sessions.
Media as Economic Driver
Highlighting media’s role as a key economic driver, the Minister welcomed the participation of the second edition of the State of Media in the Kingdom and Investment Opportunities Report, issued by the General Authority of Media Regulation. Additionally, he noted that the report serves as an analytical reference, offering data-driven insights into sector performance and investment opportunities.
The Minister announced the launch of the Media Studies and Opinion Polls Center by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The center aims to become a trusted reference for data collection and analysis, supporting the development of media policies based on solid scientific foundations.
Saudi Media Award 2026 Winners Honored
He congratulated the winners of the Saudi Media Award 2026, organized in partnership with the Human Capability Development Program. The award included four main tracks and 16 categories and received more than 500 nominated works from over 20 countries, with international participation increasing by over 200%.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister affirmed that Riyadh is the capital of influence and that Saudi media begins with people and extends its impact to the world. He stressed that resources alone cannot create impact without leadership that gives them meaning. He also expressed pride in His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, whose global influence transcends politics and conveys a powerful media message rooted in peace, compassion, confidence, and service to humanity.
Forum Activities, Exhibition Highlights
The Minister welcomed forum participants as influential partners contributing ideas and dialogue within a uniquely inspiring media platform. The first day of the forum featured diverse dialogue sessions across four main theaters: AlUla Theater, Investment Theater, Leaders Theater, and Inspiration Theater.
The day also marked the launch of FOMEX, which includes exhibitor pavilions from government entities and local and international companies. The exhibition features the Launch Zone, dedicated to unveiling the latest media innovations, concluding strategic partnerships, and shaping the future media ecosystem. Additionally, the FOMEX Theater offers discussion sessions, workshops, and dialogues led by prominent local and international speakers, alongside opportunities to sign cooperation agreements and partnerships.
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