LEAP25 Tech Summit 2025: Saudi Arabia’s $22.4 Billion Leap Toward Global Tech Dominance
Riyadh — The fourth edition of Saudi Arabia’s LEAP tech conference (LEAP25) concluded with historic momentum, securing $22.4 billion in investments* over its first two days, as the Kingdom accelerates its transformation into a global tech and AI powerhouse. Held under the theme "Into New Worlds,” the event (February 9–12) drew global industry leaders, startups, and innovators, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s strategic push to diversify its economy under Vision 2030.
- AI & Robotics: Alat & Lenovo's $2B manufacturing hub
- Data Centers: NEOM & Datavolt's $5B sustainable AI facility
- Digital Infrastructure: Mobily's $911M investment
- Cloud Computing: Multiple partnerships including Tencent Cloud
- Tech jobs increased from 150,000 (2021) to 381,000 (2024)
- Targeting 2.5% of GDP allocation to tech by 2040
- Expected $16 billion GDP contribution by 2030
- Total tech investments since 2022 exceed $42.4 billion
Massive Investments Fuel Tech Surge
The conference opened with a staggering $14.9 billion in Day 1 commitments, followed by an additional $7.5 billion on Day 2. Key deals spanned AI infrastructure, cloud computing, and innovation:
LEAP Conference Investment Commitments
Record-Breaking Participation and Innovation
LEAP25 attracted over 170,000 visitors, with participation from 1,000+ speakers, 1,800 exhibitors, and 680 startups. The event featured specialized tracks across fintech, healthtech, and smart cities, alongside groundbreaking showcases:
- DeepFest: MENA’s premier AI forum, addressing ethical AI and generative technology.
- SportsTech Track: Athletes like Patrice Evra and Iker Casillas demonstrated cutting-edge sports innovations.
- Future Mobility Pavilion: Highlighted electric vehicles and smart transportation solutions.
Strategic Push for AI and Digital Dominance
Saudi Arabia unveiled ambitious initiatives to cement its tech leadership:
- AI Development:
- Qualcomm debuted the ALLaM Arabic-language AI model and an AI-powered PC.
- Alibaba Cloud partnered with local institutions to train Saudi talent in AI.
- Economic Targets:
- Aiming to allocate 2.5% of GDP to tech by 2040, projected to add $16 billion to GDP by 2030.
- The Kingdom’s digital economy now values $132 billion, capturing 40% of MENA’s venture capital deals.
- Cumulative Growth: Total tech investments since LEAP’s 2022 launch exceed $42.4 billion.
Vision 2030: From Aspiration to Reality
LEAP25 highlighted Saudi Arabia’s progress in aligning tech growth with national goals:
- Employment Boom: Tech jobs skyrocketed from 150,000 (2021) to 381,000 (2024).
- Regional Leadership: The MENA digital economy grew 73% to$260 billion since 2021, with Saudi Arabia contributing 50%.
- Global Collaborations: Partnerships with Google, Lenovo, and Tencent aim to localize technology and talent.
