10 things you must know before you attend Saudi Event Show 2024

We're gearing up for the Saudi Event Show 2024 – the Kingdom's premier exhibition for the events industry! Set against the luxurious backdrop of the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh, this two-day extravaganza on September 11-12 is your gateway to the future of MICE, entertainment, and events.

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of cutting-edge product offerings, groundbreaking technology, and innovative services. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, the Saudi Event Show is your opportunity to connect, learn, and discover the latest trends shaping the dynamic landscape of events in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Don't miss this chance to be at the forefront of the region's booming events sector!

But here are 10 things you must know before you plan your visit.

1. Plan Your Agenda in Advance

The Saudi Event Show is packed with valuable content across multiple tracks. Take time to thoroughly review the schedule, which typically includes keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions. Prioritize sessions that align with your professional goals and industry interests. Consider creating a personalized schedule, allowing buffer time between sessions for networking or visiting exhibitors. Don't forget to factor in time for breaks and refreshments – these moments often lead to unexpected networking opportunities.

2. Networking is a Must

Networking at the Saudi Event Show goes beyond exchanging business cards. Come prepared with a clear, concise elevator pitch about yourself and your business. Research attendees and speakers beforehand if possible, and identify key individuals you'd like to connect with. Utilize the event's networking sessions, lunch breaks, and social gatherings to initiate conversations. Remember, effective networking is about building relationships, not just collecting contacts. Show genuine interest in others and follow up post-event to nurture these new connections.

3. Explore Innovative Event Technologies

The exhibition floor at the Saudi Event Show is a treasure trove of cutting-edge event technologies. From AI-powered attendee matching systems to immersive VR experiences and sophisticated event management platforms, there's a wealth of innovation to discover. Take time to visit various booths, ask for demonstrations, and understand how these technologies could enhance your events. Don't hesitate to ask about case studies or success stories to gauge real-world applications.

4. Understand Regional Dynamics

The Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, has a unique event landscape influenced by cultural traditions, economic factors, and technological advancements. Familiarize yourself with local event trends, such as the growing emphasis on sustainability or the integration of traditional elements in modern events. Understanding the nuances of doing business in the region, including communication styles and decision-making processes, will help you navigate conversations more effectively and identify relevant opportunities.

5. Dress Appropriately

Dressing appropriately is crucial for making a good impression and showing respect for local customs. For men, a suit and tie or smart business attire is generally appropriate. Women should opt for conservative business wear, ensuring arms and legs are covered. It's advisable for women to carry a light jacket or blazer. While not mandatory, some women might feel more comfortable wearing an abaya, which is widely accepted in business settings.

6. Prepare to Engage with Exhibitors

The exhibition area is not just for browsing – it's an opportunity to find solutions for your event needs. Before the show, list your current event challenges or areas where you're seeking improvements. This will help you target relevant exhibitors efficiently. Prepare questions about pricing, implementation, and support. Don't shy away from asking for case studies or references. Many exhibitors offer special show discounts, so be prepared to make decisions if you find a solution that fits your needs.

7. Set Networking Goals

Approach networking with a strategy. Before the event, identify specific types of professionals you want to meet – whether it's potential clients, partners, or mentors. Set numerical goals, such as connecting with five new vendors or three potential collaborators. Prepare topics or questions relevant to each group to facilitate meaningful conversations. Remember, quality connections often trump quantity. Focus on having in-depth discussions with fewer people rather than brief exchanges with many.

8. Maximize Learning at the Seminar Hubs

The Saudi Event Show offers an exceptional learning opportunity through its Seminar Hubs, featuring over 30 free and insightful sessions open to all visitors. These hubs are a goldmine of knowledge, showcasing the latest trends and innovative ideas in the events industry.

Plan your schedule to attend these sessions strategically:

Review the seminar topics in advance and prioritize those most relevant to your current projects or future aspirations.
Take advantage of the Q&A portions to get your specific questions answered by industry experts.
Look out for sessions that feature success stories from within the Kingdom, as these can provide valuable insights into local market dynamics.
Don't miss out on presentations covering global best practices – these can help you bring international standards to your local events.
With 40+ leading industry experts and pioneers sharing their knowledge, each seminar is an opportunity to gain cutting-edge insights that can elevate your events. Use these sessions to network with like-minded professionals who share your interests in specific event topics.
Take notes or use a note-taking app to capture key points, innovative ideas, and potential action items for your future events. Consider how the insights from these seminars can be applied to bring your next big idea to life.

By fully engaging with the Seminar Hubs, you'll not only stay ahead of industry trends but also become part of a community driving growth and innovation in the events industry. Remember, the knowledge gained here can be a powerful tool in differentiating your events in a competitive market.

9. Be Prepared for Business Discussions

The Saudi Event Show attracts decision-makers from across the industry, making it ripe for business opportunities. Come prepared with your company's latest achievements, case studies, or portfolio. Have a clear understanding of your services, pricing models, and unique selling points. Be ready to discuss potential collaborations or partnerships. Consider bringing a tablet or small laptop for impromptu presentations. Remember, while being prepared is crucial, so is being a good listener – understanding potential partners' or clients' needs is key to fruitful business discussions.

Social media can significantly amplify your presence at the event. Before attending, follow the event's official accounts and engage with pre-event content. Let your community know of your attendance with i-am-attending posters. During the show, use the official hashtag when sharing insights, quotes, or photos from the event. This not only increases your visibility but also helps you connect with other attendees. Live-tweet interesting points from sessions or share LinkedIn updates about your experience. Post-event, continue the conversation by sharing your key takeaways or following up with new connections. Remember to adhere to any social media guidelines provided by the event organizers, especially regarding photography and content sharing.

If you’re as excited about the future of event marketing as we are, don’t miss us at Stall B14 on September 11th and 12th at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh. We’ve got everything from free headshots to AI-powered engagement tools that are set to make your next event unforgettable. Come by, say hello, and let’s talk shop – we can’t wait to show you what Premagic can do!