The LEAP 2025 conference, held from 9-12 February at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham, Saudi Arabia, has once again solidified its position as a premier global technology event. With over 1,800 exhibitors, 680 start-ups, and more than 1,000 expert speakers across 15 stages, the conference attracted 200,000 industry professionals. This year’s theme, ‘Towards New Worlds’, underscored the Kingdom’s ambition to lead in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, quantum technologies, and space innovation, positioning itself as a global hub for technological innovation and digital transformation.
Record-Breaking Investments in Artificial Intelligence
A highlight of LEAP 2025 was the announcement of a staggering USD 14.9 billion in new investments dedicated to AI. These investments bring Saudi Arabia’s total technology infrastructure commitments to over USD 42.4 billion since the first LEAP conference in 2022. Key partnerships and projects unveiled include:
- Groq and Aramco Digital: A USD 1.5 billion collaboration aimed at expanding AI-powered inference infrastructure and cloud computing capabilities.
- ALAT and Lenovo: A joint USD 2 billion investment to establish an advanced AI and robotics-integrated manufacturing and technology centre.
- Google: Introduction of new AI-driven digital infrastructure, including the launch of a powerful computing cluster to meet both regional and global demands.
- Qualcomm: Deployment of ALLaM (Arabic Large Language Model) on Qualcomm AI Cloud, enhancing AI accessibility and performance.
- Alibaba Cloud: Launch of the AI enablement programme in collaboration with Tuwaiq Academy and STC Academy, focusing on training national talent in AI technologies.
These strategic investments underscore Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a leading AI hub, fostering innovation and economic diversification in line with Vision 2030.
Economic Impact and Future Commitments
The conference not only showcased technological advancements but also highlighted significant economic contributions. LEAP 2025 is projected to generate USD 820 million in economic impact for Riyadh and the broader Saudi economy. This figure reflects the influx of international exhibitors, investors, and attendees, with 74% of the 1,900 investors coming from overseas.
In a move to sustain this momentum of high-profile engagements, Tahaluf, co-organiser of LEAP, announced a USD 80 million tenancy agreement to host major industry events at the Malham venue over the next four years.
The Expanding Space Industry in Saudi Arabia
Space-related programming at LEAP 2025 delved into the evolving dynamics of the global space industry, with an emphasis on the role of space applications, sustainability, and Saudi Arabia’s expanding presence in the sector. Discussions underscored how advancements in space technology contribute to critical global challenges, such as environmental monitoring, disaster response, and connectivity. The conference also highlighted the rapid development of Saudi Arabia’s space sector, exploring investment trends and policy frameworks aimed at fostering a competitive and sustainable space ecosystem. Key announcements and initiatives include:
- Saudi Arabia will become the first country after Europe to launch connected aircrafts using Wi-Fi with 4G.
- The Space Track featured 24 events, including panel discussions, keynote speeches, and fireside chats exploring the latest advancements in space exploration and sustainability.
- The SpaceUp competition will support global entrepreneurs in leveraging space technology to address challenges in healthcare, education, and industrial manufacturing.
- Saudi Arabian Railway (SAR) secured a license from the Saudi Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) to commercialise its telecom infrastructure, boosting connectivity across the Kingdom.
As the Kingdom accelerates its space ambitions, it is positioning itself as a key player in both commercial space activities and scientific exploration, aligning with its broader economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030.
Conclusion
LEAP 2025 demonstrated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to technological advancement and economic diversification, with AI and space technology playing pivotal roles in shaping the Kingdom’s future. As investment and innovation continue to surge, stakeholders from around the world have a unique opportunity to engage with this transformative movement. If your organisation is interested in expanding its footprint in the Kingdom or engaging with regional stakeholders, reach out to Hamza Hameed at [email protected].
