Entertainment: Capturing the Leakage

Before 2017, Saudis spent an estimated $20 billion annually on tourism and entertainment abroad, primarily in Dubai and Bahrain. Recapturing this capital is a core pillar of Vision 2030.

The General Entertainment Authority (GEA)

The GEA has radically transformed the domestic landscape. Riyadh Season alone attracts over 20 million visits annually. By establishing a robust calendar of sporting events (boxing, Formula 1) and concerts, the Kingdom is successfully retaining domestic disposable income.

Economic Multiplier

This localized spend directly supports the rapid expansion of the F&B (Food and Beverage) sector, creating entry-level service jobs for young Saudis and driving retail real estate yields. The next phase requires transitioning from pop-up events (like Boulevard World) to permanent infrastructure, hence the massive capital injection into Qiddiya.