Riyadh is preparing to welcome the global technology ecosystem once again as LEAP returns from 13 to 16 April 2026, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to position itself as a leading global innovation hub under Vision 2030.
Co-organised by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and Tahaluf, the fifth edition builds on the momentum of LEAP 2025, which generated $14.9 billion in deals and announcements. Organisers expect more than 201,000 visitors, over 600 startups, 1,800 global technology brands, and 1,900 investors to participate this year.
Computer Security
Global Tech Leaders Take the Stage
LEAP 5 will feature more than 1,000 speakers, including senior executives from Google, Amazon Web Services, Lenovo, Huawei, Cisco, and Cerebras Systems, alongside Saudi industry leaders such as stc and Aramco.
Matt Garman, CEO of AWS, will address advancements in cloud infrastructure, while Nokia CEO Justin Hotard will discuss the future of connectivity. Tareq Amin, CEO of HUMAIN, will focus on AI applications in the region. Additional speakers from organisations such as the US Space Force and EY will highlight frontier technologies shaping government and enterprise innovation.
Expanded Zones and Sector Focus
This year’s programme spans more than 20 stages covering climate tech, health tech, fintech, space tech, and smart cities.
DeepFest returns as a flagship AI and deep tech platform, featuring live demonstrations and applied use cases from companies including Snowflake, Alteryx, and Xerox.
GameX Creative will spotlight gaming and esports technologies in partnership with Savvy Games Group, ESL FACEIT Group, and Kojima Productions. The Sports Tech Hub expands its focus on AI, data analytics, and immersive technologies, bringing together organisations such as The English FA, La Liga, and Aston Martin Formula One Team.
A new networking platform, LEAP Connect, will introduce structured matchmaking between founders, investors, and corporate leaders to accelerate deal-making and collaboration.
Riyadh as a Capital Hub for Tech Investment
The Investor and Startup Programme positions LEAP as a focal point for global capital flows. Anchored by the $1 million Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition and the Investor and Founder Stage, the initiative brings together participants across 60 technology verticals. Investors including PIF, SVC, 500 Global, and 20VC are expected to drive cross-border partnerships and early-stage funding.
Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
Faisal Alkhamisi, chairman of the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, described LEAP’s evolution as rapid and transformative, highlighting its role in nurturing talent and investment. Mike Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, noted that LEAP has become a platform where technologies are not only discussed but actively built.
As global markets seek new engines of growth, LEAP 5 positions Riyadh at the centre of the next wave of digital expansion, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to shape the technologies and capital flows of the coming decade.
