IAAPA Middle East Trade Summit Starts in Riyadh, Showcasing Innovations

The IAAPA Middle East Trade Summit 2025 began Tuesday at Mohammed Al-Ali Theater in Boulevard Riyadh City.

Held for the second time in the Kingdom, the summit is organized in collaboration between the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) and Riyadh Season, with prominent attendance from entertainment industry leaders and international experts.

During his opening speech, General Entertainment Authority (GEA) Executive Vice President for Investment and Business Development Mohannad Al-Abbad highlighted the Kingdom’s advanced position in the entertainment industry and its ability to host global events.

He emphasized that the summit serves as an exceptional opportunity for exchanging ideas and expertise while showcasing the latest innovations that contribute to the development of the entertainment sector, which has become a key driver of the economy and a catalyst for creativity and investment.

“Riyadh Season takes pride in supporting this summit as part of its commitment to fostering creativity, attracting global expertise, and delivering unprecedented experiences that strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global entertainment and tourism destination,” Al-Abbad said.

He expressed his aspiration to enhance partnerships, explore new opportunities, and introduce innovative visions that contribute to the sector’s development, emphasizing that collaboration and integration among stakeholders are key to sustaining success.

The first day of the summit featured panel discussions on the growing investment opportunities in the Kingdom’s entertainment sector. Experts emphasized that Saudi Arabia, driven by the Saudi Vision 2030 and major entertainment projects, has become a key driver in the global development of the industry.

IAAPA chief executive Jakob Wahl praised the significant progress Saudi Arabia has made in developing the entertainment sector, expressing his delight in partnering with Riyadh Season and the GEA to host this global event.

On the sidelines of the summit, an accompanying exhibition launched, showcasing the latest technologies in the entertainment sector. Around 60 global and local companies are participating in the exhibition, presenting advanced solutions in amusement rides, interactive experiences, and digital technologies.