GEA Chairman says events attracted over 75 mln visitors, 100,000 direct jobs created

Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of GEA

Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), revealed its achievements until October 2021, as the number of visitors to the events reached more than 75 million.

A total of 2,300 companies participated in the 2,500 events organized by the authority so far. Meanwhile, as many as 4,400 permits and licenses were issued; 100,000 direct jobs were created; and more than 100,000 training opportunities were provided, Al-Sheikh said during the periodic government communication press briefing today, Oct. 4.

A total of 952 factories benefitted from Riyadh Season, and the overall workforce reached 16,000 workers – the majority of whom are Saudis – while the number of contractors reached 722.

The top official stressed that Riyadh Season features 10 international exhibitions, world-class car auctions, and sees the usage of more than 30 tons of fireworks.

Al-Sheikh also said the authority achieved 30% of its target contribution to the economy by 2030.

He added that there will be some year-long projects such as the Boulevard and VIA Riyadh.