Umm Al-Qura University has opened the Career and Innovation Forum 2026 under the patronage of Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah Region.

University President Dr. Moaddi bin Mohammed Al-Madhhab and Eng. Razan Al Aayed, Deputy Minister of Tourism for Human Capital Development, attended the opening alongside officials, experts, academics and tourism sector stakeholders.

The forum supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by linking higher education outcomes more closely to the needs of the tourism job market, empowering national talent and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in one of the Kingdom's fastest-growing sectors.

Its academic and professional program includes four enrichment sessions led by specialists, experts and decision-makers, together with 21 specialized workshops to build the practical and professional skills of students, graduates and others interested in tourism.

More than 60 employers are taking part, helping participants prepare for the job market and become more competitive.