Silmo establishes new show in Riyadh
Silmo is further advancing its international expansion with the inaugural edition of Silmo Riyadh, set to take place from April 2 to 4, 2027, at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center (RICEC). The new event marks a strategic move into the Middle Eastern market, underscoring the region’s growing importance for the global optics and eyewear industry.
Positioned as a comprehensive platform for professionals across the vision care sector, Silmo Riyadh aims to foster collaboration, stimulate knowledge exchange and unlock new business opportunities. The event is designed to reflect the rapid evolution and increasing demand within the regional optical market.
Middle East gains strategic importance
The Middle East has emerged as a key growth area for the optical industry, with the market valued at over USD 7.6 billion, including approximately USD 2.2 billion in Saudi Arabia alone. Annual growth rates of 8 to 10 percent highlight the region’s strong momentum and attractiveness for international stakeholders.
As Saudi Arabia’s capital undergoes significant economic and infrastructural transformation, Riyadh is positioning itself as a central hub for the industry. The city is bringing together an expanding network of manufacturers, distributors and healthcare professionals, creating a dynamic ecosystem for innovation and business development.
Integrated format bridging science and business
Silmo Riyadh will adopt a multidisciplinary approach, combining commercial, scientific and educational elements within a single framework. The event will be held alongside several key industry gatherings, including:
- The 6th World Congress of Optometry (WCO)
- The annual congress of the Saudi Society of Optometry (SSO)
- OptiVision, a platform dedicated to local market stakeholders
In addition to the exhibition showcasing international brands and products, this integrated format is designed to facilitate high-level networking while promoting cutting-edge research and technological advancements.
By uniting these components, Silmo Riyadh aims to create a unique environment that strengthens industry synergies, supports professional development and highlights innovation across the global optics and eyewear landscape.
Strong partners for an ambitious rollout
Silmo Riyadh is built on a strategic collaboration with the Saudi Society of Optometry (SSO), a well-known educational and scientific society.
This alliance ensures a strong local presence, combined with SILMO’s international expertise in creating high value-added professional events.
Through this launch, Silmo confirms its determination to position itself at the heart of high-potential markets and to deliver platforms that are ever more closely aligned with the global challenges facing the sector.