Saudi Arabia to Host Intervision Song Contest in 2026

Saudi Arabia Secures Hosting Rights for Intervision 2026

Saudi Arabia is set to host the second edition of the Intervision Song Contest in 2026, a significant step in the Kingdom's efforts to expand its cultural and tourism footprint on the global stage. The announcement follows the successful conclusion of the inaugural contest in Moscow on September 20, 2025, where Vietnam's Duc Phuc emerged as the winner.

The decision for Saudi Arabia to host the event was made after Saudi authorities expressed their readiness, aligning with the nation's ambitious Saudi Vision 2030 framework. This initiative aims to diversify the economy and promote the Kingdom as a premier destination for international events and cultural tourism.

Inaugural Contest in Moscow

The first edition of the revived Intervision Song Contest took place at the Live Arena in Novoivanovskoye, near Moscow, featuring contestants from 23 countries. Vietnamese singer Duc Phuc secured the victory with his song 'Phu Dong Thien Vuong,' a blend of pop, rap, and dubstep, and was awarded a prize of 30 million rubles, equivalent to approximately $360,000 USD.

Saudi Arabia was among the participating nations in the Moscow event, represented by singer and songwriter Zeina Emad, who performed a specially commissioned piece titled 'Just a Concern.' Other participating countries included the UAE, Qatar, Egypt, China, and India.

Intervision's Historical Context and Revival

The Intervision Song Contest has historical roots dating back to the 1960s, originally serving as a Soviet-era alternative to the Eurovision Song Contest. It was organized by the International Radio and Television Organisation (OIRT) between 1965 and 1980, primarily featuring countries from the Eastern Bloc. The contest was discontinued in 1980.

The recent revival of Intervision was ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2023, following Russia's exclusion from Eurovision in 2022 after the invasion of Ukraine. Organizers have stated that the new Intervision aims to celebrate 'traditional, universal and family values' and promote 'real music,' positioning itself as a counterpoint to what some perceive as 'fake values' in other international music competitions.

Saudi Arabia's Vision for 2026

Hosting Intervision 2026 is anticipated to be a significant landmark for Saudi Arabia's tourism industry. The event is expected to attract record participation and showcase innovative performances that highlight the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and creativity. It will serve as a platform for cultural exchange, artistic diversity, and the promotion of international tourism, further establishing Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for global events.

The Saudi Ministry of Culture is noted as an organizer for the 2026 edition, emphasizing the country's commitment to fostering cultural and music tourism. This aligns with broader initiatives like the Riyadh Season, which has transformed the capital into a dynamic hub for entertainment, arts, and culture, attracting millions of visitors annually.