Riyadh is preparing to host the second edition of the World Stadiums & Arenas Summit on Wednesday and Thursday, 14–15 October 2026, at Hilton Riyadh. The event comes as Saudi Arabia expands its sports facilities and infrastructure projects in preparation for major international tournaments, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.
According to a report by SURJ Sports Investment, the sector’s market value is expected to exceed USD 22 billion by 2030, with estimates suggesting it could contribute approximately USD 16.5 billion annually to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by the end of the decade.
The summit will spotlight opportunities in the design, development and operation of stadiums and arenas, as well as multi-purpose venues, emerging technologies, entertainment destinations and related investment. As major sports projects progress towards delivery, greater emphasis is being placed on operating and investment models that can generate sustainable returns beyond major tournaments and events.
Key discussion themes include public-private partnerships, sports facility financing and development, smart stadiums, fan experience, sustainability and operational efficiency, as well as ways to increase the commercial and entertainment use of venues throughout the year.
This year’s edition will feature the Ministry of Sport as an Event Partner, with the National Center for Privatization (NCP) and JLL also among the summit partners. The event will bring together government entities, investors, developers, venue operators, sports federations and clubs, alongside architects, consultants and technology solution providers.
Across two days, the programme will feature sessions and discussions with local and international experts on privatization models and investment partnerships, artificial intelligence and smart technologies in stadiums, venue and asset management, sustainability solutions, and strategies for turning stadiums and arenas into commercially active destinations throughout the year.
With the summit just days away, the event provides a direct opportunity for decision-makers, project delivery stakeholders and solution providers to meet, exchange expertise and explore areas of collaboration as Saudi Arabia’s sports infrastructure sector enters its next phase of development.
The World Stadiums & Arenas Summit takes place on 14–15 October 2026 at Hilton Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For further details and registration, visit the official event website.
