In the heart of Riyadh, the capital city rapidly transforming into a regional and international hub for decision-making and influence, the Saudi Media Forum as a strategic platform that transcends its traditional function of bringing together specialists, becoming a key driver in shaping the region's future. This intellectual movement aligns with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which has positioned media among the vital sectors capable of leading societal and economic transformation. Media is no longer merely a mirror reflecting events, but a partner in shaping events and guiding public opinion towards sustainable development.
Media as an economic and developmental force
As part of the forum's activities, attention will be focused on a pivotal session titled "Media as a Central Force in Societal and Economic Development," which will discuss the transformation of media institutions from news platforms into productive economic entities. In a global context, the media and entertainment industry is a major contributor to the GDP of developed countries, a fact that the Kingdom seeks to solidify by stimulating investment in media infrastructure.
Discussions suggest that this sector has the potential to:
- Creating thousands of job opportunities for young and creative national talent.
- Supporting digital innovation and diversifying national income sources away from oil.
- Enhancing the Kingdom’s economic competitiveness by marketing investment opportunities to the world.
The Integration of People and Place: A Narrative of National Identity
In another dimension reflecting the depth of the Saudi vision, the forum presents a session entitled “When Media Becomes an Integrative Mission for People and Place.” This session comes at a time when the Kingdom is witnessing an unprecedented urban renaissance, from the Red Sea Project and NEOM to the development of historical districts. Here, the media transforms into a professional “narrator,” connecting the aesthetics of urban planning with the spirit of the Saudi people.
Contemporary media today is required to create a “spatial narrative” that serves the tourism and investment sectors. Every cultural landmark needs a media story that gives it life and attracts visitors and investors, thus consolidating the national identity and enhancing the Kingdom’s soft power on the international stage.
Addressing the challenges of the digital age
The forum, held from February 2nd to 4th, does not overlook the significant challenges posed by the digital revolution. The ability to adapt to artificial intelligence and evolving media consumption patterns is a key to survival. Therefore, the forum emphasizes the importance of developing a transparent and in-depth media discourse that balances speed of dissemination with credibility, ensuring the creation of an informed society resilient against misinformation.
In conclusion, the Saudi Media Forum represents a starting point towards a new era, where efforts are combined to create a media that not only keeps pace with the future, but actively participates in shaping its features, making the Saudi story a global model of development and prosperity.
