LEAP 2025: Saudi Arabia Solidifies Position as Global AI Powerhouse with Record-Breaking Investments

A Wave of AI Investment Transforms the Kingdom

LEAP 2025, Saudi Arabia's premier technology event, has shattered its own records, announcing a staggering US$14.9 billion in new Artificial Intelligence (AI) investments. This influx of capital further solidifies the Kingdom's position as a leading global hub for AI innovation.

Held at the Riyadh International Exhibition and Convention Centre, the four-day event unveiled a series of groundbreaking partnerships and initiatives. These new announcements bring the total tech-related infrastructure investments in Saudi Arabia to over US$42.4 billion since LEAP's inception in 2022.

Key Partnerships and Initiatives Drive AI Advancement

A diverse range of industry giants have committed to investing in Saudi Arabia's burgeoning AI ecosystem. Aramco Digital and Groq are partnering on a US$1.5 billion plan to expand AI-powered infrastructure and cloud computing. ALAT and Lenovo have pledged US$2 billion to establish a cutting-edge manufacturing and technology center integrating AI and robotics. Furthermore, Google is introducing new AI-driven digital infrastructure, including a powerful computing cluster to address regional and global demand.

Other notable investments include Databricks' US$300 million commitment to integrated PaaS solutions, empowering developers with advanced AI tools. SambaNova is investing US$140 million in building advanced AI infrastructure, while Global private equity firm KKR and Gulf Data Hub are strategically investing in data centers with a capacity of up to 300 megawatts. Salesforce is investing US$500 million in developing Hyperforce and enhancing cloud capabilities for regional customers, and Tencent Cloud is allocating US$150 million to establish the Middle East’s first AI-powered cloud region.

Vision 2030: A Catalyst for Technological Transformation

His Excellency Eng Abdullah Alswaha, the Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), emphasized that this wave of investments brings the Kingdom one step closer to realizing His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision of transforming Saudi Arabia into a global beacon of technological innovation.

“LEAP 2025 is a defining moment…Technology has catalysed Saudi Arabia as the biggest success story in youth and female empowerment in the 21st Century,” said Alswaha.

Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, co-organizer of LEAP, added, "The massive volume of new investments…reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s undisputed status as the primary digital accelerator in the Middle East and North Africa.”

Quantum Computing: A Glimpse into the Future

IBM Chairman & CEO Arvind Krishna joined HE Alswaha on the LEAP Main Stage to discuss emerging industry trends, with a particular focus on the transformative potential of quantum computing.

Krishna predicted a breakthrough in quantum computing within the next "three to five years," highlighting the potential impact on key sectors in the Kingdom.

“A breakthrough…is quantum computing - I think we will see something amazing," said Krishna. "It will all be about materials, energy, oil and gas, possibly pharmaceuticals – all areas that are critical to the Kingdom and very much part of Vision 2030.”

Tech Arena: A Showcase of Innovation

LEAP's inaugural Tech Arena provided a captivating glimpse into the future of technology. From virtual reality boxing to futuristic couture, attendees experienced cutting-edge advancements firsthand.

Engine VR showcased Golden Gloves VR, an immersive boxing experience, while Adobe's Project Primrose demonstrated a transformative wearable technology that merges fashion and technology.

LEAP 2025: A Platform for Global Collaboration

With over 1,800 tech brands, 680 startups, and 1,000 expert speakers, LEAP 2025 is a dynamic platform for collaboration and innovation, driving the future of technology.