Is parking available at the venue?

Yes, there are more than 5,500 free parking spots available, including accessible parking close to the entry points. There is also additional parking, making more than 7,500 parking spaces available at the venue. (2022 data) [Source:

Is there Wi-Fi at the venue?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for exhibitors and visitors. (2022 data) [Source:

Are there prayer rooms at the venue?

Yes, the venue has prayer rooms for men and women. (2022 data) [Source:

Is there a shuttle service to the venue?

Public transportation is not available at the moment; however, shuttle services can be provided by the organiser. We recommend checking with them before your event. (2022 data) [Source:

What are the opening hours of Saudi Food Expo 2026?

The opening hours are 4:00 PM:00 PM daily. [Source:

Where is Saudi Food Expo 2026 held?

Saudi Food Expo 2026 is held at Riyadh Front Expo (Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center), Airport Road, Riyadh 13413, Saudi Arabia. [Source:

Saudi Food Expo | TradeShowIntel

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at Saudi Food Expo include A&M Rare LLC, AAYZ Trading, Aegan International DMCC, Aftco and AKLIFE FMCG TRADING COMPANY.

A&M Rare LLC
AAYZ Trading
Aegan International DMCC
Aftco
AKLIFE FMCG TRADING COMPANY

Event overview

Overview

Saudi Food Expo 2026 is a ground-breaking exhibition that unites marketing and sales, offering a platform for exhibitors to expand their business, develop networks and increase regional sales. The event is designed to help businesses capitalize on the growing $54 billion food industry in Saudi Arabia.

It provides access to decision-makers, buyers of food supplies, restaurant equipment, and hospitality services, and facilitates direct deals with new vendors, wholesalers and suppliers. The expo runs from 15.

November 2026 at Riyadh Front Expo, Riyadh, with opening times from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily. (

TL;DR

1Dates: 15-18 November 2026, Riyadh Front Expo, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Source:
2450+ exhibitors, 900+ brands, and 15,000+ expected key visitors from 60 countries. (Source:
3Focus on the $54 billion food and beverage industry in Saudi Arabia. (Source:
4Opening hours: 4:00 PM:00 PM daily. (Source:
5$400,000+ marketing campaigns supporting the event. (Source:

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Decision makers (Source:

Key visitors from 60 countries (Source:

Buyers of food supplies, restaurant equipment, and hospitality services (Source:

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Food and beverage manufacturers (Source:

Suppliers and distributors (Source:

Hospitality equipment providers (Source:

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Food & Beverage

Food Supplies

Restaurant Equipment

Hospitality Services

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Hall 1Hall 2Hall 3Hall 4

Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC)

RPPH+7PH, King Khalid International Airport, 13413 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Floor plans & maps

Hall & site plans Official venue page

Facilities

Parking

More than 5,500 free parking spots available, including accessible parking close to entry points. Additional parking makes more than 7,500 parking spaces available at the venue. Free on-site parking for up to 7,500 vehicles on a secure site with direct drive-in access to exhibition halls. Valet parking can be provided at the organiser's request. [

7,500 spaces ·

Accessibility

Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center offers equitable and step-free access to the venue. Parking for people with special needs is available at the venue for all events. Toilets for people with special needs are easily accessible and available at the venue. Wheelchair accessibility is available throughout. [Source:

Prayer rooms

Prayer rooms for men and women are available within the Roshn Front complex. (2022 data for venue FAQ confirmation) [

On-site shuttle

Public transportation to the venue is currently not available, but organisers may be able to arrange shuttle services. Free shuttle rides have been provided at comparable events between Princess Noura University (Metro Station) and Riyadh Front Exhibition. We recommend checking with Saudi Food Expo organisers before the event. (2022 data for venue FAQ confirmation) [

Food options

ROSHN Front dining district, Venue F&B outlets

On-site dining

Parking: More than 5,500 free parking spots available, including accessible parking close to the entry points. Additional parking makes more than 7,500 parking spaces available at the venue. (2022 data) Free parking for up to 7,500 vehicles on a secure site with direct drive-in access to all exhibition halls. [

Gate: Exhibitors with a parking permit should follow static traffic signs to entrance gates; the permit indicates which gate(s) provide access to parking. (2022 data) [Source:

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Sunday 15 November 2026:4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Monday 16 November 2026:4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Tuesday 17 November 2026:4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Wednesday 18 November 2026:4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Trade Visitor Pass
Free registration for qualified food distributors, hospitality operators, supermarket buyers, and chefs
VIP Hosted Buyer Badge
Access to dedicated buyer lounge, pre-scheduled business meetings, and VIP executive networking events

Who runs the show

Organisers

SAE Exhibitions

Organiser (Head Office Dubai)

Website

International Arabian Exhibitions

Organiser (Riyadh Office)

Website

Wael Alsebai

Contact Person

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 23,500 visitors · 450 exhibitors

Pre-show estimates from multiple trade portals: 450 exhibitors, 23,500 professional visitors, 18,000 sqm. Official site does not publish these counts directly. (2026 data)

Forecast — not final

Visitors

45,000

Exhibitors

450

Floor area (sqm)

18,000

Growth over time

New this edition

1
Saudi Food Show Excellence Awards
Awards were presented in 10 categories honoring outstanding exhibitors: Best Luxury Product, Best Coffee Innovation, Best Innovative Packaging, Best Food Innovation, Best Saudi Product, Best Plant-Based Product, Best Snack Product, Best Dairy Product, Best Beverage Product, and Best Healthy Product. [2025 edition]
Source
2
Saudi Food Summit
A high-level summit featuring expert speakers from IFFCO Professional, General Mills, Tamimi Markets, and Daymon discussing AI adoption in retail, personalisation, and consumer-centric innovation. [2025 edition]
Source
3
Top Table Saudi
Interactive culinary masterclasses with Saudi and international chefs, including Top Chef Middle East participant Areej Al-Shareef, showcasing the evolution of local gastronomy and rich Saudi ingredients. [2025 edition]
Source
4
Expanded National Pavilions
Country pavilions from GCC nations, USA, Switzerland, Spain, Poland, Norway, Brazil, Thailand, Singapore, China, and South Korea. First-time participants included Russia, Vietnam, New Zealand, Canada, Germany, Morocco, and Tunisia. [2025 edition]
Source

Photos

Saudi Food Expo 2025 3D floor plan at Riyadh Front Exhibitions and Conferences Center

Testimonials

We are thrilled to participate in the show as a top agricultural brand in the Middle East, and we are proud to serve its stakeholders and the agricultural community with our industry-leading technologies. We are happy to contribute successfully to Saudi Arabia's sustainable development by investing in firms that deliver high-quality products and services on a local and regional scale. This is a delight, and what pleases us the most is that the turnout was from individuals as well as facilities
Afnan Ehab Hameed · Marketing Executive · Tabuk Agriculture Development Co · 2022

A platform for many local and international exhibitors, from enterprises, suppliers and investors, to generate new chances, interact and expand
Wael Al-Sebai · Expo Director and General Manager of Business Development · International Arabian Exhibitions · 2022

Next edition outlook

2026

estimated

The 2026 edition of Saudi Food Show is scheduled for November 15, 2026 at Riyadh Front Expo, Riyadh. The event is expected to build on the momentum of the 2025 edition which attracted over 1,300 exhibitors and 40,000 visitors from 100 countries. With Saudi Arabia's F&B market projected to continue growing and the Kingdom's food industry sector estimated to reach SAR 247 billion by 2030, the 2026 edition is positioned to expand further with additional international pavilions and enhanced focus on innovation, food security, and localization aligned with Vision 2030. [

Expanded international pavilion participation following first-time exhibitors from Russia, Vietnam, New Zealand, Canada, Germany, Morocco, and Tunisia in 2025 Greater focus on food manufacturing and processing technologies aligned with Saudi localization goals Increased emphasis on AI adoption in retail and supply chain innovation following the 2025 Saudi Food Summit discussions Continued growth in the Saudi Food Show Excellence Awards categories and participation

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The Saudi Food Show 2025 concluded its three-day event with over 1,300 companies representing 100 countries, highlighting innovations in the food industry and its pivotal role in supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals. Held at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center from May 12 to 14, the event transformed the space into a vibrant hub where thousands explored cutting-edge products and innovations. The Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) signed industrial and logistics agreements worth SAR 350 million on the sidelines, part of its strategic efforts to empower the food sector. Opening day alone witnessed food industry and logistics investment agreements totaling more than SAR 600 million. The event reinforced Saudi Arabia's position as a gateway into a rapidly modernising consumer market, with the Kingdom's F&B sector projected to reach $24.29 billion by the end of 2025. [

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2025 edition attracted more than 40,000 visitors from 101 countries, with over 1,300 exhibitors from 41 countries. The event drew top business leaders and buyers from around the world, including international ambassadors from. New Zealand, Malaysia, and Italy, signaling strong global interest in expanding food trade with Saudi Arabia. Fawaz Shakaa, CEO of Farm Dairy Company and board member of the Jordan Chamber of Industry, noted that consumption patterns in the country are evolving, with more consumers showing a growing preference for international products, making the Kingdom a key market. Mexico's iAURA engaged with more than 100 potential buyers, generating significant interest in its chickpea portfolio. Japanese exhibitors reported that many buyers showed interest in their products, with follow-up needed to convert to actual business. The event attracted thousands of leading global companies and national pavilions, with exhibitors praising the quality of business interactions. [

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Brazilian companies participating in the 2025 edition reported an expectation of generating approximately US$40 million in business during the event and the subsequent 12 months, according to ApexBrasil. The opening day alone witnessed food industry and logistics investment agreements totaling more than SAR 600 million, with companies including Kudu and Yousef Abdul Latif Jameel Group finalizing deals. Strategic partner MODON signed 10 industrial, logistics, and investment agreements worth SAR 350 million with the private sector during the event. Mexico's iAURA confirmed they will return every year after engaging with over 100 potential buyers and seeing strong interest in their chickpeas. Japanese exhibitors noted many buyers showed interest in their products and they would follow up to convert to actual business. These figures demonstrate the event's capacity to generate tangible commercial outcomes for international exhibitors. [

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC/Middle East

Why it matters

Saudi Food Expo 2026 takes place at a pivotal moment for the Kingdom's food and beverage sector. Saudi Arabia's F&B market was valued at USD 36.35 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 50.38 billion by 2031 at a 5.59% CAGR, making it the largest food and drink market in the GCC. The Kingdom imports roughly 80% of its food requirements and over 70% of its fresh fruit, creating substantial opportunities for international exporters, ingredient suppliers, and food manufacturers. Under Vision 2030, a USD 70 billion government investment is being funneled into processing plants to bolster domestic agri-food capabilities and reduce import reliance. The foodservice sector is expanding rapidly, with the market projected to grow from USD 30.1 billion in 2025 to USD 48.06 billion by 2031. Mega-events including Riyadh Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034 will further fuel F&B consumption in tourism and hospitality. For exhibitors and visitors, the Expo provides direct access to decision-makers, buyers, and distributors in one of the world's fastest-growing food markets, with 450+ exhibitors, 900+ brands, and 15,000+ expected key visitors from 60 countries

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Clean-label and natural ingredient reformulation

Saudi consumers are increasingly rejecting artificial additives, prompting the SFDA's trans-fat ban to drive reformulations across carbonated drinks, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals. Over half of Saudi food manufacturers are actively reformulating to reduce synthetic additives. Excise taxes of 50% on soft drinks and 100% on energy drinks are pushing brands toward natural ingredients and healthier alternatives. Clean-label and organic systems are expected to grow from 5-8% of ingredient value in 2026 to 15-20% by 2035

Source

Vision 2030 food security and local production

Vision 2030 policies are steering oil revenues into bolstering domestic agri-food capabilities to reduce import reliance. A significant government investment of USD 70 billion is being funneled into processing plants. The dairy sector has surpassed 121% self-sufficiency, contributing 46% to agricultural GDP. Saudi Arabia's food industry sector reached SAR 166.1 billion in 2024, growing 9.2% year-on-year, and is projected to reach SAR 247 billion ($65.9 billion) by 2030 at a 6.8% CAGR

Source

Halal food market expansion and premiumization

The Saudi halal food market was estimated at approximately $43.4 billion in 2024, projected to reach $126.8 billion by 2033 at an 11.7% CAGR. Halal certification is a mandatory regulatory requirement for all food products sold in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia commands 61% of the GCC meat market, with the halal meat market projected to hit $8.73 billion by 2034. The Gulf Standardization Organization updated GSO 2055-1 Halal Food Standards in early 2026

Source

Rapid growth of quick commerce and online grocery

Saudi Arabia's quick commerce market expanded from USD 1.93 billion in 2025 to USD 2.38 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 6.86 billion by 2031 at a 23.54% CAGR. Online grocery alone is growing at 18% year-on-year and is set to hit $5.7 billion by 2032. By 2025, 95-96% of residents owned smartphones and 99% enjoyed nationwide broadband coverage, with mobile payments driving close to 80% of digital transactions

Source

Premiumization and private label expansion

Saudi retailers are expanding private label offerings at 10-12% annually to offer cost-effective alternatives while maintaining quality. The ultra-premium food segment is growing rapidly at 12-15% annually, driven by demand for clinically proven functional ingredients in health and wellness and medical nutrition. The private label segment presents an opportunity for ingredient suppliers who can provide cost-optimized formulations with clean-label positioning

Source

Foodservice and hospitality sector boom

Saudi Arabia's foodservice market was valued at USD 30.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 48.06 billion by 2031 at an 8.11% CAGR. Full-service restaurants hold a 53.62% market share. The hotel development pipeline included 275 projects and 67,614 rooms as of Q3 2024. Mega-events including Riyadh Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034 are expected to fuel F&B consumption growth in tourism and hospitality sectors

Source

Dairy sector self-sufficiency and innovation

Saudi Arabia's dairy sector has surpassed 121% self-sufficiency, contributing 46% to the nation's agricultural GDP. 69% of households favor local milk due to perceived freshness and quality. Almarai operates fully integrated farms ensuring price stability even amidst global feed fluctuations. NADEC reported a net income of SAR 213.2 million in H1 2024, buoyed by a 7.3% rise in revenue. [Source:

Digital transformation and smart manufacturing

The growing trend toward digital transformation, adoption of smart manufacturing technologies, and expansion of e-commerce promote operational efficiency and open new horizons for reaching consumers. Regulatory alignment with Codex labels is set to solidify transparency regulations, directing premium pricing toward producers who adhere to these standards. [

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Industry Minister inaugurates Siniora Food Industries factory in Jeddah with SAR150 million investment

Read

Saudi Arabia and Russia sign 13 agreements worth $1.28bn to boost food security

Read

Saudi Arabia's Jazan region launches $160 million agriculture project

Read

The Saudifood Show and Saudifood Manufacturing unite in Jeddah for first time

Read

NADEC signs SAR 85 million agreement to acquire Pure Harvest greenhouse in Saudi Arabia

Read

Middle East & Global F&B Trade Show Circuit (Next 12 Months)

6 to 12 months ahead for booth booking, visa, and logistics at major events

Saudi Food Expo 2026 sits within a dense circuit of F&B trade events across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. Exhibitors and buyers targeting the Saudi and GCC markets can combine attendance at multiple events to maximise market coverage. Key adjacent events include. The Saudifood Show in Jeddah (September 2026), Foodex Saudi in Riyadh (November 2026), Gulfood in Dubai (March 2027), and Saudi HORECA in Riyadh/Jeddah (2027). For global sourcing, Anuga in Cologne (October 2027) and SIAL Paris (October 2026) remain benchmark events

September 2026 — Saudi domestic circuit

The Saudifood Show 2026

The Saudifood Show in Jeddah (27-29 September) offers a strategic lead-in to Saudi Food Expo 2026 in Riyadh. Exhibitors targeting Saudi Arabia may consider participating in both to cover the western and central regions

November 2026 — Riyadh cluster

Saudi Food Expo 2026Foodex Saudi 2026 (Riyadh)

Two major F&B events occur in Riyadh in November 2026 — Saudi Food Expo (15-18 November) at Riyadh Front Expo and Foodex Saudi (16-18 November) at The Arena Riyadh. International visitors can potentially attend both

Q1 2027 — Gulf flagship events

Gulfood 2027

Gulfood in Dubai (15-19 March 2027) is the global F&B sourcing flagship. Exhibitors and buyers targeting the GCC should treat Gulfood as a must-attend alongside Saudi-specific events

Q4 2027 — Global mega events

Anuga 2027

Anuga in Cologne (9-13 October 2027) is the world's largest F&B trade fair, held biennially. It provides a global sourcing platform complementary to regional Middle East events

Event dates and details compiled from official event websites, organiser pages, and credible trade fair directories including AUMA, Eventseye, FoodTechBiz, and FIEO. Dates marked as uncertain in content_confidence.uncertain should be verified with organisers closer to the event

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · SAR

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

RUH

King Khalid International Airport

The primary international gateway to Riyadh, located on Airport Road. The venue is strategically positioned just minutes from the airport, making it highly accessible for international visitors. RFECC is 13.9 km from the airport, and a taxi or ride-hailing service is the most practical option. The airport has five terminals: Terminals 1 & 2 for international flights with national carriers, Terminals 3 & 4 for domestic flights, and Terminal 5 for foreign international airlines. [

13.9 km

to venue

17-25 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget / 3-star

Qurtubah / Al Munsiyah (near venue)

USD 55–100 / night

Budget options near Riyadh Front include Medmak Suites (from ~$58/night, 5.1 km from venue), Medhal Qurtuba by Prime Hotels (closest to exhibition hall, back entrance leads directly to venue in 400 meters), Boudl Al Munsiyah (from ~$99/night, 10-minute drive to venue, 164 air-conditioned rooms with kitchens), and Najd Peak Hotel Apartments (Qurtubah district, indoor pool, free parking). Prices are estimates based on 2026 booking platform listings and may be higher during event dates. [

Mid-range / 4-star

Al Munsiyah / Qurtubah / Central Riyadh

USD 100–200 / night

Mid-range hotels within a short drive of Riyadh Front include Rosa Grand Hotel Monsieh (2 min drive to venue), Al Muteb Suites Granada (6.6 km from Riyadh Front, ~$107/night), and Braira Al Nakheel Hotel (4-star near Riyadh International Convention Center). Riyadh Marriott Hotel averages around $133/night. Hilton Riyadh Olaya starts from ~$172/night. Prices are estimates for November 2026 and may be higher during event dates. [

Premium / 5-star

Riyadh Front / Diplomatic Quarter / Al Olaya

USD 250–500 / night

Fairmont Riyadh is the nearest luxury hotel to King Khalid International Airport with easy access to Riyadh Front (from ~$364/night). The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh starts from ~$367/night. The average price for luxury hotels in Riyadh is $282/night, with high-season rates exceeding $400. Prices are estimates for November 2026 and may be higher during event dates. [

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Riyadh Metro

Estimated costSAR 4 (2-hour standard pass) / ~USD 1.07

Best forLine 4 (Yellow Line) to Princess Noura University 2 Station, then short taxi to Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center

The Yellow Line connects King Khalid International Airport terminals (T1-T5), KAFD, and PNU. From PNU 2 Station, a 5-minute taxi ride reaches the venue. Payment accepted via Visa, Mastercard, Mada, or Apple Pay. Standard 2-hour pass SAR 4; 3-day pass SAR 20; 7-day pass SAR 40; first class 2-hour SAR 10. Shuttle buses have run from Princess Nourah University Station at comparable events. [

Ride-hailing (Uber, Careem, Bolt)

Estimated costSAR 50–150 (~USD 13–40) from central Riyadh; SAR 80–200+ from airport depending on surge

Best forDirect to Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center, Airport Road, Riyadh

Uber, Careem, and Bolt are widely available across Riyadh. Fares are dynamic and shown in-app before confirmation. Airport to city centre typically SAR 50–90 in off-peak; surge pricing applies during peak hours, Thursday/Friday evenings, and after Isha prayer. Pre-booked private transfers run SAR 120–180 for a fixed rate. [

Metered Taxi (street hail or taxi stand)

Estimated costSAR 13 base + SAR 2.7/km (e.g., 5 km ≈ SAR 26.5; 15 km ≈ SAR 53.5)

Best forDirect to venue or anywhere in Riyadh

Traditional metered taxis are easy to find in Riyadh. Base fare SAR 13, per km SAR 2.7, waiting SAR 50/hour. SAFWA is the sole authorised airport taxi operator with fixed zone-based fares. Taxi stands available at the airport. A typical 10 km trip costs SAR 20–28. [

Car Rental

Estimated costUSD 25–60 per day (economy to intermediate); SUV higher

Best forSelf-drive from airport or city pick-up points to venue; free parking for 7,500 vehicles on-site

Car rental desks available at King Khalid International Airport and city locations. Sixt average USD 46/day, lowest USD 26/day. Avis from GBP 25/day. Enterprise and Hertz also operate. Free parking for up to 7,500 vehicles at the venue with direct drive-in access to exhibition halls. International driving permit recommended. [

Pre-booked Private Transfer

Estimated costSAR 120–180 (~USD 32–48) sedan; SAR 200–300 SUV/minivan

Best forAirport (RUH) to hotel or directly to Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center

Fixed-rate transfers with driver meeting at arrivals holding a name sign. Flight tracking, luggage assistance, English-speaking driver, no surge pricing. Bookable via WhatsApp or online platforms. Recommended for business travellers and first-time visitors. Airport to venue drive time 17–25 minutes. [

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

On-arrival available

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Tourist eVisa	Citizens of eligible countries (60+ nationalities including US, UK, EU/Schengen, Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, Canada and others). GCC citizens are exempt	$140.00	Minutes to 72 hours (usually approved instantly or within 24 hours)
Business Visa	Foreign nationals invited by a registered Saudi company or government entity for commercial purposes such as meetings, contracts, or trade events. Business travellers attending trade exhibitions require this visa	$800.00	Two to three weeks
Visa on Arrival	Citizens of 60+ eligible countries including the US, UK, EU/Schengen states, Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and others. Also available to holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas	$128.00	Minutes — issued at airport kiosk or immigration counter

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations — Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates — do not need any visa to enter Saudi Arabia and can stay up to 90 days. Nationals of certain countries holding diplomatic or official passports may also be visa-exempt under bilateral agreements. All other foreign nationals require advance visas or qualify for visa on arrival/eVisa. [Source:

Saudi Arabia joined the international ATA Carnet guarantee system and began accepting carnets at all land, sea, and air customs points from June 2024. The ATA Carnet facilitates temporary importation of goods for exhibitions and events for up to one year without incurring duties or undergoing customs procedures. Pre-approval by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) is mandatory. Importers must submit a pre-approval request via the ZATCA e-service portal, providing importer information, passport copy, and ATA Carnet details. Apply through the Chambers of Commerce website or visit their Riyadh office. [

Official visa page

Weather

November in Riyadh is pleasant with warm days and cool evenings. Average daytime highs reach 27-28°C (81-82°F) while nighttime lows drop to 14-15°C (57-59°F). Rainfall is minimal, averaging around 9-10 mm for the month with fewer than one rainy day. The event is held in the evening (4:00 PM to 11:00 PM), so temperatures will be comfortable during show hours. [

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center is located on Airport Road in the northeast of Riyadh, minutes from King Khalid International Airport (13.9 km). The venue is well-connected by major highways with direct drive-in access to exhibition halls. Riyadh Metro Line 4 (Yellow Line) serves the area via Princess Noura University 2 Station, which is a 5-minute taxi ride from the venue. Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Careem, Bolt) are widely available. The venue is also minutes from major hotels and malls, including Roshn Front (formerly Riyadh Front) which is directly adjacent. [

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Business dress code

Business attire in Saudi Arabia is conservative and formal. Men should wear suits with long-sleeved shirts and ties for business meetings. Expatriate men are required to wear formal business suits. Women should wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs; abayas are not mandatory for foreign businesswomen, but modest dress is required. Closed-toe shoes are recommended in business environments. During trade exhibitions, smart business attire is appropriate. [

Business greetings and titles

Formal greetings are essential in Saudi business culture. Always use formal titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Engineer followed by the last name. The Arabic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) is highly appreciated. Men generally greet each other with a handshake; a man should not extend his hand to a woman unless she offers hers first. Business cards should be given and received with the right hand. [Source:

Weekend and prayer times

The Saudi weekend is Friday and Saturday. Business hours are typically Sunday through Thursday. Prayer times occur five times daily, and business activities may pause briefly during prayer. Friday is the holiest day, and businesses are generally closed. Plan meetings and travel accordingly around prayer schedules. [

Meeting etiquette and relationship building

Saudis attach great importance to stable personal connections. At a first business meeting, mutual greetings follow a strict hierarchy. Building trust and taking time for personal conversation before discussing business is customary. Avoid rushing into business discussions; initial meetings are often about establishing rapport. Punctuality is appreciated but be prepared for meetings to start later than scheduled. [

Ramadan working hours (if applicable)

During Ramadan, working hours for Muslim employees in Saudi Arabia are reduced to a maximum of six hours per day or 36 hours per week under labour law provisions. Public sector offices typically follow a five-hour continuous schedule. Business meetings may be scheduled later in the day during Ramadan, and non-Muslim business visitors should avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Note: Saudi Food Expo 2026 dates (November 15-18) do not fall within Ramadan. [

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: RUH

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is served by major international carriers including Saudia, Riyadh Air, flynas, Flyadeal, and foreign airlines operating from Terminal 5. The airport has five terminals with Terminals 1 & 2 for international flights operated by national carriers, Terminals 3 & 4 for domestic flights, and Terminal 5 for foreign international airlines. [

Visa

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, with the exception of GCC citizens (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE). Most international visitors can apply for a tourist eVisa online or obtain a visa on arrival at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) if they are citizens of eligible countries. Business travellers attending trade events may require a business visa with a MOFA invitation letter from a Saudi host. Exhibitors and visitors of trade shows can typically use the tourist eVisa for entry. [

Processing: Minutes to 72 hours (eVisa); up to 3 weeks (business visa)

Tourist eVisa cost includes mandatory health insurance. Business visa fees vary by nationality and entry type, ranging from approximately SAR 2,000 (single entry) to SAR 3,000 (multiple entry). Visa on arrival costs SAR 480 including health insurance. Payment for visa on arrival is by credit/debit card only. [

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

Qurtubah / Al Munsiyah (adjacent to Riyadh Front, 5-15 min drive) · Al Olaya / Al Muruj (central Riyadh business district, 25-35 min drive) · Diplomatic Quarter (upscale area, 20-30 min drive)

Budget / 3-star

$55-$100 per night

Mid-range / 4-star

$100-$200 per night

Premium / 5-star

$250-$500 per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is approximately 13.9 km from Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center, with a drive time of 17-25 minutes. Official metered taxis are available outside all arrival terminals; expect to pay SAR 60-100 (~$16-27) to the city centre depending on traffic. Pre-booked private transfers cost approximately SAR 120-180 ($32-48). Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem also operate from the airport. Riyadh Metro Line 4 (Yellow Line) connects directly to the airport terminals (T1-T5) and stops at Princess Noura University 2 Station, a 5-minute taxi ride from the venue. [

Hotel → venue: Most nearby hotels in Qurtubah and Al Munsiyah are within a 5-15 minute drive of Riyadh Front. Medhal Qurtuba by Prime Hotels is the closest, with a back entrance leading directly to the exhibition hall in 400 meters. Rosa Grand Hotel Monsieh is a 2-minute drive. Boudl Al Munsiyah is a 7-10 minute drive. For hotels in central Riyadh (Al Olaya), expect a 25-35 minute drive depending on traffic; during major exhibitions, allow an extra 30-45 minutes. [

Ride-hail: Uber, Careem, and Bolt are widely available in Riyadh. Traditional metered city taxis can be hailed on the street or booked by calling 920003090. Taxi flag fall is SR4 with SR2 per km; a typical 10 km trip costs SR20. Airport to city centre costs SAR 60. During major events, ride-share prices can surge 3x, and pre-booking a private transfer is recommended to avoid queues. [

Public transit: Riyadh Metro Line 4 (Yellow Line) serves the airport corridor. Take the metro to Princess Noura University 2 Station, then a short 5-minute taxi ride to the exhibition centre. The Yellow Line connects KAFD, Ar Rabi, Uthman Bin Affan Road, SABIC, PNU 1, PNU 2, Airport T5, Airport T3, and Airport T1-2 stations. Metro fares: Standard class SAR 4 for a 2-hour pass, SAR 20 for 3 days, SAR 40 for 7 days. First class SAR 10 for 2 hours. Payment accepted via Visa, Mastercard, Mada, or Apple Pay. There is no direct rail connection to the venue from Riyadh's main train stations. [

Parking: Complimentary parking is available around the venue. Free parking for up to 7,500 vehicles on a secure site with direct drive-in access to all exhibition halls. More than 5,500 free parking spots including accessible parking close to entry points (2022 data). Valet parking can be provided at the organiser's request. [

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: November

Temperature: 14°C to 28°C (57°F to 82°F)

Seasonality: Minimal rainfall, averaging 9-10 mm for the month with fewer than one rainy day. Approximately 26 sunny days in November. Low chance of precipitation (3-5%)

Packing: Light layers are recommended as daytime temperatures are warm (27-28°C) but evenings cool down significantly (14-15°C). Business attire should be conservative: suits and ties for men, modest loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs for women. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking the exhibition floor. [

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

10:00 AMArrive at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center; park in free on-site parking
11:00 AMAttend Saudi Food Expo 2026; explore food and beverage exhibitor halls
1:00 PMLunch at one of the venue's F&B outlets or nearby Roshn Front dining options
2:00 PMContinue exploring exhibitor booths; network with suppliers and distributors
4:00 PMVisit Riyadh Front entertainment area or catch a film at the cinema
6:00 PMDinner at a restaurant in Riyadh Front or return to hotel

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Monday, 16 November 2026

The show runs 15–18 November 2026 (Sunday–Wednesday) with identical published hours of 16:00–23:00 each day and no day-specific programme published (schedule Day 2 (Monday) is recommended as a practical compromise: opening-day registration and entry queues have eased while exhibitor teams and meeting schedules are still in full swing, leaving Days 3–4 for follow-ups. This is planning guidance, not an official organiser recommendation

Confirm edition dates, venue and visitor registration route — Show runs 15–18 November 2026 at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center, 16:00–23:00 daily. Register via the official site (https://www.saudifoodexpo.com/). Planning guidance, not an official deadline

Book flights and hotel near Riyadh Front — RFECC sits on Airport Road, minutes from King Khalid International Airport, with free parking for up to 7,500 vehicles (https://rfecc.sa/getting-here/). Hotels fill quickly during show week. Guidance

Apply for the Saudi eVisa (tourist or business, as applicable) — Tourist eVisa plus travel health insurance is reported at SAR 402.21 (~US$107) (https://internews.pk/eng/2026/07/13/saudi-arabia-introduces-all-in-one-tourist-visa-package/). Guidance; verify current requirements on official Saudi channels

Build a target-exhibitor list and pre-book B2B meetings — Prioritise F&B manufacturers, ingredients, packaging, halal-certified and cold-chain suppliers. The show is positioned as sales- and deal-focused (https://www.saudifoodexpo.com/). Guidance

Arrange local transport — Public transport to the venue is not available; organisers may arrange shuttles. Careem, Uber and metered taxis are the main options (https://rfecc.sa/getting-here/). Guidance

Prepare collateral and meeting materials — Bring English/Arabic product and company collateral, business cards and a meeting tracker. Guidance

Check badge, ID/passport and daily show hours — Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms and ATMs are available at the venue (https://www.saudifoodexpo.com/faqs). Guidance

Day 0

Arrive early, collect badge and plan a hall route — Show opens at 16:00; arrive ahead of opening to clear registration. Guidance

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day