Saudi Arabia will serve as the guest country at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum 2026, scheduled from June 3 to June 6, coinciding with the centenary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia, Vestnik Kavkaza reported on August 6.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov noted the significance of Saudi participation next year as the two countries mark 100 years of diplomatic ties. The Roscongress Foundation described Saudi Arabia as one of Russia's main economic and strategic partners.

The forum will feature business sessions, investment presentations, negotiations and cultural events, including a Saudi Arabian national pavilion focusing on exports, tourism and technology cooperation.

Anton Kobyakov, responsible secretary of the SPIEF Organising Committee, said the forum would take place during an era of active changes in the global economy.

"The forum will traditionally become a key platform for dialogue between states, business and the expert community, where practical solutions will be formulated to promote sustainable growth and strengthen international cooperation," he said.

The previous SPIEF 2025, held from June 18 to June 21, brought together delegations from 144 countries. During that forum, more than 1,100 agreements worth over RUB6.5 trillion ($70.7bn) were signed, including 831 agreements by Russian regions.

The organisers said the forum remains a key mechanism for developing international and regional economies in the context of a changing global environment.

Saudi Arabian media has yet to highlight their official invitation, but several investors from the country have said that the event is expected to be an area to discuss topics including Israel-Palestine and Ukraine.