Riyadh: On behalf of Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, CEO of Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) Ageel Alshaibani opened the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh in the Saudi capital today, joining senior tourism leaders and global travel buyers as Saudi showcased its growing portfolio of destinations, experiences and tourism opportunities.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the opening marked the start of the inaugural destination-focused event, bringing together international travel buyers and Saudi tourism businesses to build commercial relationships, explore new products and programmes, and strengthen the travel trade's ability to bring more of Saudi to market.

STA CEO Ageel Alshaibani said: 'I'm delighted to begin my tenure as the new CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority as Saudi hosts the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh, an important time to bring our global partners closer to the momentum here, and to work together to convert growing demand into lasting opportunity.'

WTM Spotlight Riyadh continues through 10 September, with STA participating in industry meetings and trade engagement throughout the event.

STA's participation forms part of its continued efforts to strengthen relationships with the global travel trade, expand the reach of Saudi destinations and enable tourism partners to convert growing demand into visitation across the Kingdom.