World’s largest tech event brings together global technology leaders, investors and innovators; Saudi Arabia advances as a global hub for AI and digital infrastructure
RIYADH, Monday, August 31, 2026 (WNP): The fifth edition of LEAP 2026, described as the world’s largest technology event, opened in Riyadh on Monday under the theme “Into New Worlds,” bringing together leading technology and artificial intelligence (AI) experts, investors, innovators and major technology companies from around the world.
The opening day witnessed the announcement of major launches, investments and strategic partnerships worth more than $15 billion in AI and advanced technologies, further strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position as a global destination for technology investment and advanced computing.
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha said in his opening address that the latest launches and investments had been made possible through the support and empowerment of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
He said Saudi Arabia was steadily advancing towards leading the global AI era in partnership with major international companies, innovators and investors.
Alswaha emphasized that the Kingdom had established a global model for translating technological ambitions and commitments into tangible achievements, supported by agility, reliability and speed of execution.
He also highlighted the critical role of technology and national talent, particularly young Saudis, in driving the Kingdom’s digital transformation and technological progress.
The newly announced investments and projects are contributing to the development of an integrated AI ecosystem covering energy, connectivity, semiconductors, data centres, accelerated computing, AI models, cloud services and sector-specific applications.
The ecosystem is expected to support the continued expansion of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy, enhance technological capabilities and strengthen the Kingdom’s competitiveness in global markets.
LEAP 2026 is being organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP) and Tahaluf, a joint venture between SAFCSP, global events company Informa and the Events Investment Fund.
The event will continue until September 3 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham.
The five-day technology gathering features more than 1,000 speakers, 1,900 investors, 1,800 global technology brands and 600 startups, with discussions taking place across 16 stages and more than 20 tracks.
Key areas under discussion include artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, smart cities, fintech, healthcare, space, gaming and mobility, highlighting the rapid transformation of emerging technologies and their growing impact on economies and societies worldwide.
