Saudi Arabia to Host LEAP 2025, Its Biggest Tech Event, in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia is set to host its flagship technology conference, LEAP 2025, in Riyadh from February 9, bringing together global visionaries, innovators, and investors. The event follows the record-breaking LEAP 2024, which saw $13.4 billion in investments and project commitments.

Aiming for a Global Tech Hub

Under the theme “Into New Worlds,” LEAP 2025 seeks to enhance business networking and investment in the tech sector. The event is a crucial part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a global technology hub. As part of this initiative, the government has pledged $100 billion toward the technology sector.

A recent World Economic Forum report projected that increased investment in research, development, and innovation could add $16 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030. The government has committed to allocating 2.5% of the nation’s annual GDP to the sector by 2040.

LEAP 2025 is co-organized by Tahaluf and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in partnership with Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and the Events Investment Fund. The event is expected to host 680+ tech startups, 1,100 speakers, 1,800 tech brands, and 170,000+ visitors.

Driving Innovation in Saudi Arabia

Industry leaders recognize LEAP as a key driver of Saudi Arabia’s tech ambitions. Mamdouh Al-Doubayan, managing director of Globant MENA, emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s tech journey is shaping major projects like NEOM, Red Sea Global, and Qiddiya.

“Building a knowledge-based economy is not just about deploying cutting-edge tools; it’s about fostering environments where innovation solves real-world challenges and drives progress,” Al-Doubayan said.

Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha highlighted the conference’s exclusivity this year, noting that a ticketed format would provide an elevated experience for global tech leaders. “LEAP 2025 will showcase exceptional technology innovations and business opportunities, reinforcing Saudi Arabia as the world’s top technology aggregator,” Al-Swaha said.

Speakers, Programs, and New Segments

LEAP 2025 will feature the return of DeepFest, the leading AI forum, along with new tracks such as the SportsTech Track and Tech Arena.

• SportsTech Track: Highlights innovations in sports technology with live demos, industry announcements, and insights from stars like Patrice Evra, Mathieu Flamini, and Iker Casillas.
• Tech Arena: Offers hands-on experiences with prototypes and live product demonstrations.
• Startup Stage: A platform for emerging entrepreneurs to pitch new ideas.

Keynote speakers include Arvind Krishna (IBM CEO), Charbel Aoun (NVIDIA Smart City Lead), and Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al-Saud (Chairman, Saudi Esports Federation). Other notable speakers include Google Cloud’s Alison Wagonfeld, Axiom Space’s Kam Ghaffarian, and La Liga President Javier Tebas.

Industry heavyweights such as Saudi Aramco, PepsiCo, Logitech, Lucid, and the Royal Commission of AlUla are also set to participate.

Expanding Opportunities

Beyond panels and speeches, LEAP 2025 will offer extensive networking and investment opportunities through investor matchmaking programs, exclusive lounges, and workshops for startups.

A major highlight is the Future Mobility Pavilion, where companies such as Tesla, Lucid Motors, and Saudi Public Transport Company will showcase advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and smart transportation.

Cybersecurity and blockchain technology will also take center stage, with dedicated discussions on data privacy, digital identity, and decentralized finance featuring experts from Microsoft, IBM, and Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority.

Additionally, research institutions and universities will present cutting-edge developments in AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing, allowing attendees to engage with scientists and tech pioneers.

Cementing Saudi Arabia’s Tech Leadership

LEAP 2024 was reportedly the world’s most attended technology conference, drawing over 215,000 visitors and pushing Riyadh’s hotel occupancy rates to 99%.

With a packed agenda of industry discussions, networking, and hands-on tech experiences, LEAP 2025 is set to further solidify Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in technology and innovation.