Riyadh, February 09, 2025 – LEAP 2025, the premier global technology and innovation conference, officially launched today in Riyadh, marking a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey to becoming a global hub for digital transformation and tech investment. The event, themed “Into New Worlds,” saw the announcement of over $14.9 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) investments on its opening day, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a key player in shaping the digital future.
Organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP), and Tahaluf Company, LEAP 2025 brings together global tech leaders to showcase Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the digital economy. The investments announced aim to accelerate the Kingdom’s transition to an AI-driven economy, empower digital skills development, and foster innovation in line with Vision 2030 objectives.
Key Highlights from LEAP 2025 Day 1
- Groq and Aramco Digital announced a 1.5 Billion AI−Powered Cloud Computing Expansion
Groq and Aramco Digital announced a 1.5 Billion AI-powered cloud to enhance AI-powered cloud computing infrastructure, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in AI. - Alat and Lenovo confirmed a 2 Billion AI and Robotics Manufacturing Hub
Alat and Lenovo confirmed a 2 billion investment to establish an advanced AI and robotics manufacturing center in Saudi Arabia and open Lenovo’s regional headquarters in Riyadh. - Google’s Global AI Hub in Saudi Arabia
Google unveiled plans to launch a global AI hub in the Kingdom, catering to regional and international demand for AI solutions. - Qualcomm’s ALLaM Language Model and AI PC
Qualcomm introduced the ALLaM language model on its AI Cloud platform and launched the ALLaM AI PC, enabling developers to access cloud-based AI solutions and drive innovation. - Alibaba Cloud’s AI Empowerment Program
Alibaba Cloud, in collaboration with Tuwaiq Academy and STC, launched an AI training program to upskill local talent and support Saudi Arabia’s sustainable digital future. - Data Bricks committed 300 Million for Data Engineering and AI Expertise
Data Bricks committed 300 million to provide Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) solutions, empowering app developers and advancing data engineering and AI capabilities. - Samba Nova pledged 140 Million for Advanced AI Infrastructure
Samba Nova pledged 140 million to develop cutting-edge AI infrastructure, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional innovation hub. - KKR & Gulf Data Hub’s Data Center Investment
KKR and Gulf Data Hub announced a major investment in Saudi Arabia’s data center development, with a capacity of up to 300 megawatts, boosting cloud computing and AI capabilities. - Salesforce committed $500 million to Hyperforce Expansion
Salesforce committed $500 million to expand its Hyperforce platform, serving regional customers from Saudi Arabia. - Tencent Cloud’s First Middle East Cloud Region
Tencent Cloud pledged $150 million to establish its first cloud region in the Middle East, launching from Saudi Arabia with integrated AI capabilities.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision for a Digital Future
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global leader in AI and digital transformation during the keynote address. He emphasized that these investments were made possible through the support of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of fostering innovation and building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.
Why LEAP 2025 Matters
LEAP 2025 underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead the global AI sector, attract top-tier technology investments, and solidify its position as the largest digital economy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. By fostering partnerships with global tech giants and investing in cutting-edge technologies, the Kingdom is paving the way for a future driven by innovation and digital excellence.
Stay tuned for more updates as LEAP 2025 continues to showcase groundbreaking advancements in AI, cloud computing, and digital transformation.
