Host Arabia

A new chapter for the hospitality industry in the Middle East
Photos provided by HostMilano / Host Arabia
Photos provided by HostMilano / Host Arabia
Alexandra Gorsche © Conny Leitgeb Photography
1. December 2024 | 
Alexandra Gorsche
1. December 2024
|
Alexandra Gorsche

The hospitality industry is entering a new era: Host Arabia, an innovative event format that redefines exhibition standards, will be launched for the first time in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2026. Organized by Fiera Milano, one of the world’s leading trade fair operators, in partnership with Semark, Host Arabia will serve as a hub for the Middle East’s hospitality, hotel and trade sectors. This event is not only a milestone for the industry, but also a strong signal of Saudi Arabia’s economic dynamism as part of Vision 2030.

Why Host Arabia represents a revolution for the industry

  • Successful HostMilano meets Vision 2030
    The proven concept of HostMilano, one of the world's leading trade shows, is being transferred to the Middle East for the first time. In recent years, HostMilano has attracted over 180,000 trade visitors, many of whom came from the GCC countries and Asia. This global reach is now to be further expanded with Host Arabia.
  • A market on the upswing
    Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in tourism and infrastructure, including the construction of 300,000 new hotel rooms and an increase in visitor numbers to 150 million by 2030. These ambitious goals make the Kingdom one of the most exciting markets for the hospitality industry. Technologies that improve the customer experience and innovative solutions for the hospitality industry are particularly in demand.
  • Strong partnership for a successful future
    Fiera Milano's collaboration with Semark, an experienced organizer in the Saudi Arabian market, guarantees a seamless implementation of the trade fair. As part of the renowned Al Rajhi Group, Semark brings valuable local expertise, while Fiera Milano contributes its international network and know-how.
  • Networks as the key to success
    An event like Host Arabia is more than just a trade fair - it is a platform for exchange between industry experts, decision makers and innovators.

Why networks are crucial:

  1. Promoting innovation: Regular exchange helps companies to keep their finger on the pulse and recognize trends at an early stage.
  2. Facilitate market entry: International players can tap into new markets through partnerships and collaborations.
  3. Sharing knowledge: Events such as Host Arabia offer workshops, live demos and discussion panels that spread expertise and set industry standards.

The importance of cultural understanding

Intercultural skills are essential, especially in the Middle East. Local networks can help to better understand local markets and offer customized solutions.

Our conclusion for the future

Host Arabia will not only transform the hospitality industry in the Middle East, but also set global standards. With the growing demand for personalized and technology-driven customer experiences, this event is a crucial step in bringing innovation and quality to the region.

Host Arabia demonstrates the importance of collaboration, innovation and networking to future-proof an industry. This show is not just a platform, but a catalyst for the entire hospitality industry. The Middle East has the potential to become a global hub - and Host Arabia will actively drive this change.

A la table, s'il vous plaît! A la table, s'il vous plaît! A la table, s'il vous plaît! A la table, s'il vous plaît!
Copyright for the featured images used:
Photos provided by HostMilano / Host Arabia

Book tip: The E-Food Book

If you want to understand how e-commerce is revolutionizing the food industry, this book is a must-read

“The E-Food Book” by Matthias Schu is not light reading – but it is extremely relevant to everyday practice. It analyzes the changes in food retail based on facts and with a view to strategic opportunities.

Particularly valuable are the international best practice examples that show how digital food concepts are being rethought worldwide. At the same time, the book offers many tools and ideas for implementation in your own business – whether it’s a farm shop, food retail or wholesale.

INFO:
The E-Food Book – Markets, Players, Strategies
Author: Prof. Dr. Matthias Schu
Publisher: Deutscher Fachverlag GmbH
420 pages, paperback, 170 × 240 mm
ISBN: 978-3-86641-358-0
Price: €42.00

Food Trends 2026

How health, alcohol-free, AI, and social media are redefining our shopping habits

From gut health to alcohol-free enjoyment, from AI-supported shopping planning to viral food hypes: Austrian online supermarket Gurkerl.at sees four megatrends that will permanently change the food and beverage industry in 2026. Head buyer Nina Gerhardt explains why consumption is no longer just about price and availability – but about lifestyle, well-being, and digital intelligence.

January 5

The Monday among workdays

It’s approaching. The first workday of the new year. For most people, this year it will be January 5. This day is quite special in terms of communication. A little small talk will do the trick: “Did you have a good start to the new year?” is the diplomatic, classic, and possibly meaningful question to ask. Provided you mean the question seriously. If you ask a question, you must also be genuinely interested in the answer.

quick & dirty
Photo provided
Host Arabia

The hospitality industry is entering a new era: Host Arabia, an innovative event format that redefines exhibition standards, will be launched for the first time in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2026. Organized by Fiera Milano, one of the world’s leading trade fair operators, in partnership with Semark, Host Arabia will serve as a hub for the Middle East’s hospitality, hotel and trade sectors. This event is not only a milestone for the industry, but also a strong signal of Saudi Arabia’s economic dynamism as part of Vision 2030.