https://arab.news/wtxw9
The fourth edition of LEAP 2025, held in Riyadh, has reinforced Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure investments, securing total investments exceeding $14.9 billion.
It was the region’s premier technology event, which concluded at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham under the theme “Into New Horizons.”
The milestone highlighted the Kingdom’s growing influence in the digital economy and innovation landscape.
The success of LEAP 2025 is a testament to the unwavering support of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, whose vision continues to drive Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation.
This aligns with Vision 2030’s objectives, solidifying the Kingdom’s leadership in technology, AI, and entrepreneurship.
As a global platform, LEAP brings together top thinkers, industry leaders, and investors to drive innovation and accelerate the shift toward a prosperous and sustainable digital economy.
Organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in collaboration with the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones and Tahaluf Company, LEAP 2025 featured over 200,000 attendees; participation from 1,800 international and local entities; more than 1,000 global speakers; a showcase of 680 startups; and major deals with asset managers overseeing $22 trillion in portfolios
These figures underscore Saudi Arabia’s role as a global innovation hub, attracting top-tier companies and talent in the tech sector.
LEAP 2025 witnessed the announcement of landmark investments that will accelerate digital growth in the Kingdom, including a $1.5 billion partnership between Groq and Aramco Digital to boost AI-powered cloud computing investments; a $2 billion investment between Saudi-based Alat and China’s Lenovo to establish an advanced AI and robotics-driven manufacturing and technology hub; and the launch of several digital infrastructure and innovation projects, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a top destination for global tech investments.
Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, minister of communications and information technology, emphasized that LEAP 2025 reflects the Kingdom’s leadership in global technology innovation.
He said that the international investments and success achieved by Saudi Arabia’s technology sector "are a direct result of the support and empowerment" of the crown prince.
"This momentum drives Saudi Arabia toward its Vision 2030 goals, strengthening its position as a leader in AI, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship,” he added.
Faisal Al-Khamissi, chairman of the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones and Chairman of Tahaluf, said: “None of these achievements would have been possible without the support and vision of the crown prince, who has transformed Saudi Arabia into a global hub for advanced technology, innovation, and a sustainable digital economy.
“LEAP 2025 was not just a tech event — it was the largest and most impactful edition to date. It connected startups with investors, drove innovation, and unlocked new opportunities for entrepreneurs.”
Al-Khamissi added: "LEAP will expand globally, with two editions planned for 2026 — one in Riyadh and another in Hong Kong. This marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the global digital economy and AI-driven innovation."
LEAP 2025 has already accelerated the growth of several startups, with notable success stories including Ejari, which started with a small booth at LEAP and secured a $1 million seed round, followed by another $15 million investment. It has since expanded its team to over 30 employees and attracted $50 million in business opportunities.
Data Lexing, a Saudi startup that debuted at LEAP 2022, has since expanded to 10 international markets with over 2,000 clients, 65% of whom are outside Saudi Arabia.
Quant secured $2 million in investment in a single day at LEAP.
With its record-breaking deals, global partnerships, and visionary expansion plans, LEAP continues to shape the future of AI, innovation, and technology investment worldwide.