The highly anticipated LEAP 2025 Tech Conference has officially commenced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, bringing together global tech leaders, AI pioneers, and innovators under the theme "Into New Worlds." The conference, which runs from February 9 to February 12, 2025, has already set a groundbreaking tone with a massive $14.9 billion investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and strategic partnerships across key technology sectors.
LEAP has become one of the world’s largest technology events, attracting over 1,000 international speakers, 1,800 exhibitors, and 680 startups, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for technological advancement and digital transformation.
Saudi Arabia’s $14.9 Billion AI Investment Strategy
On the first day of LEAP 2025, Saudi Arabia secured over $14.9 billion in AI-focused investments, further reinforcing its ambition to lead the global AI revolution. These investments are part of the Kingdom’s long-term strategy to strengthen its digital economy, advance AI research, and develop cutting-edge technology infrastructure.
Several key partnerships and initiatives were announced, including:
- $1.5 Billion AI Cloud Expansion: Groq & Aramco Digital are investing $1.5 billion to expand AI-powered cloud computing, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s role as an emerging leader in AI development.
- $2 Billion AI & Robotics Center: Alat & Lenovo have pledged $2 billion to establish an advanced AI and robotics-based manufacturing center in Saudi Arabia, alongside the opening of Lenovo’s regional headquarters in Riyadh.
- Google's AI Hub: Google has unveiled plans to launch a global AI hub in Saudi Arabia, supporting AI research and deployment in the region.
- Qualcomm's ALLaM AI PC & Cloud Solutions: Qualcomm introduced the ALLaM AI PC and cloud-based AI services, allowing developers to leverage AI-powered infrastructure.
- Alibaba Cloud’s AI Training Program: In collaboration with Tuwaiq Academy and STC, Alibaba Cloud launched an AI empowerment program to train local talent and boost AI literacy.
- $300 Million Databricks PaaS Investment: Databricks has committed $300 million to Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) solutions for developers, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s data engineering ecosystem.
- $140 Million SambaNova AI Infrastructure: SambaNova is investing $140 million to build advanced AI infrastructure in the Kingdom.
- KKR & Gulf Data Hub’s Mega Data Center: A strategic investment aims to develop a 300-megawatt data center, supporting cloud computing and AI-based applications.
- Salesforce’s $500 Million Hyperforce Expansion: Salesforce is expanding its Hyperforce platform with a $500 million investment, strengthening its cloud infrastructure in the Middle East.
- Tencent Cloud’s $150 Million Regional Expansion: Tencent Cloud will establish its first Middle East cloud region in Saudi Arabia, integrating AI-powered services.
Saudi Arabia’s Ambition to Become a Global AI Hub
Saudi Arabia has been actively positioning itself as a leader in AI and digital innovation, aligning with its Vision 2030 strategy. The massive AI investments announced at LEAP 2025 reflect the Kingdom’s goal to diversify its economy beyond oil and establish one of the world’s most advanced AI ecosystems.
The conference is organized by:
- The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)
- The Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP)
- Tahaluf Company
- Supported by the Events Investment Fund
With top-tier tech companies, investors, and government officials in attendance, Saudi Arabia is showcasing its commitment to AI-driven economic growth and innovation on a global scale.
What’s Next at LEAP 2025?
As LEAP 2025 continues, attendees can expect groundbreaking AI announcements, robotics showcases, metaverse innovations, cybersecurity advancements, and future-tech discussions. The event serves as a launchpad for startups and global tech giants to collaborate on shaping the future of AI, cloud computing, and digital transformation.
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious $14.9 billion investment strategy is just the beginning. The country is rapidly becoming a powerhouse in AI and emerging technologies, setting the stage for long-term global impact in the tech industry.
LEAP 2025 is not just another tech event—it is a global statement that Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of AI and digital innovation. With billions in AI investments, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking announcements, the Kingdom is well on its way to becoming a leader in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.