Saudi Arabia’s flagship tech event, LEAP, is poised to make waves once again as it returns for its fourth edition, set to take place from February 9 to 12, 2025, at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center in Malham. This year’s event, themed “Into New Worlds,” promises to break new ground as it becomes the first ticketed edition, offering an exclusive experience for industry leaders, innovators, and investors.
Co-organized by Tahaluf and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), alongside a collaboration with Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and the Events Investment Fund, LEAP 2025 will feature an exciting array of new initiatives. Highlights include a series of “LEAP Nights,” the return of DeepFest, a dedicated Tech Arena, a SportsTech Track, and a strong focus on sectors such as space, gaming, education, and smart cities, all spread across 20 stages.
LEAP 2025 is expected to witness a surge in high-value interactions as more than 680 startups, 1,000 expert speakers, and over 1,800 global tech brands converge in Riyadh. The event will offer unparalleled opportunities for business networking and investment, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for technology and innovation.
New Features at LEAP 2025
One of the most anticipated additions is the brand-new SportsTech Track, where the worlds of sports and technology converge. Attendees will experience live demos, industry announcements, and groundbreaking innovations from sports clubs, industry leaders, and pioneers. Confirmed speakers include Patrice Evra, former Manchester United footballer, and Mathieu Pierre Flamini, co-founder of GF Biochemicals.
The Tech Arena is another exciting feature, offering attendees the chance to witness live product demonstrations, interact with prototypes, and explore cutting-edge technologies in action. This interactive space will connect participants with breakthrough innovations set to shape the future.
The Startup Stage will also play a key role in fostering entrepreneurship, providing a platform for startups to pitch, network, and explore new opportunities. LEAP Nights, a new initiative, will allow attendees to experience Riyadh’s vibrant cultural scene, with dinners, meetups, and live entertainment, offering a perfect setting for networking and socializing.
Building Connections and Future Growth
LEAP 2025 will also feature enhanced matchmaking services, investor-to-investor workshops, and mentorship sessions. The event is expected to draw more than 1,500 global investors and startups, providing a dynamic ecosystem for collaboration and growth. A dedicated Investor Program will offer exclusive networking opportunities in lounges and matchmaking zones, tailored to connect investors with the most promising tech ventures.
Global Tech Figures Return
Several notable international figures are confirmed for LEAP 2025, including Ken Kutaragi, former CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment; Javier Tebas, President of LA LIGA; and Andrea Vena, Chief Climate and Sustainability Officer at the European Space Agency. Other tech heavyweights like Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM, and previous speakers from Zoom, TikTok, and Google will return to share their insights.
His Excellency Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, stressed the importance of LEAP in realizing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, positioning the Kingdom as a global technology hub. “LEAP has played a pivotal role in defining Saudi Arabia’s tech landscape,” he said.
Looking Ahead: The Future of LEAP
Faisal Alkhamisi, chairman of the SAFCSP, highlighted the rapid pace of LEAP’s evolution, noting the event’s role in nurturing talent and fostering investment. “LEAP will continue to reflect the changing tech landscape and inspire global pioneers,” he stated.
Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, emphasized that the transition to a ticketed format would create a more curated experience, enabling exhibitors and participants to engage with a highly focused audience. This shift is expected to accelerate investment streams and boost innovation, further establishing LEAP as the gold standard for tech events worldwide.
With over $27.5 billion in public and private investment generated in its first three years, LEAP 2025 is set to continue its impressive legacy, driving growth and innovation in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
