RIYADH, Jan 12 (Bernama) -- The Saudi Media Forum (SMF) 2026, scheduled to take place from Feb 2 to 4 in Riyadh, is set to convene more than 300 prominent global media leaders across over 100 dialogue sessions, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a hub for international media dialogue.
Held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the fifth edition of the Forum will serve as a key platform to examine the future of the media industry amid rapid technological, political and social transformations, the Saudi Media Forum said in a statement.
“This fifth edition of the Forum reaffirms its status as a pivotal event in the year of media transformation, bringing together the most prominent media minds to discuss the issues and challenges facing the sector and ways to keep pace with a rapidly changing world.
“The Forum offers an exceptional opportunity for interaction and deeper engagement with Saudi Arabia’s rich and deeply rooted culture, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a regional and global hub for media dialogue, innovation, and content creation,” it said.
Among the major themes to be discussed are the role of media alliances and partnerships in shaping global public opinion, as well as the intersection between political analysis and public diplomacy in influencing narratives about the Middle East, it said.
The programme will also explore the role of media in explaining and supporting major social and economic transformations, alongside strategies to combat misinformation, enhance digital verification and strengthen public trust in the age of information overload.
Other sessions will focus on growth strategies in an increasingly crowded media market, the evolving relationship between traditional television and streaming platforms, and the readiness of media professionals to adapt to a fast-changing digital environment.
Economic-related discussions will examine the media industry as a form of soft power, opportunities for sustainable media partnerships, and the viability of media investment within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030.
A key highlight of the 2026 edition is the launch of “Boulevard 2030,” a dedicated space adjacent to the Future of Media Exhibition (FOMEX) showcasing achievements of Saudi Vision 2030 programmes and major megaprojects, including Diriyah Gate, AlUla, the Red Sea Project and Qiddiya, the statement added.
The Forum will also expand the Saudi Media Award across four main tracks covering 14 categories, with the introduction of an AI-generated content category, described as a global first within a professional media awards ecosystem.
In addition to the Forum, FOMEX will bring together government entities alongside local and international companies to showcase the latest media innovations, facilitate strategic partnerships and host high-level discussions, reinforcing the Saudi Media Forum’s position as a pivotal event in a year of significant media transformation.
-- BERNAMA
