What's in store for LEAP 2025 in Saudi Arabia?
The fourth edition of
Under the theme 'Into New Worlds,' LEAP 2025 will be the event's first ticketed edition, with a focus on industry attendees to enhance business networking and investment opportunities.
LEAP 2025 is co-organised by Tahaluf and the Ministry for Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) – a joint venture between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and the Events Investment Fund. The event will feature new additions such as 'LEAP Nights' activities, the return of DeepFest, a dedicated Tech Arena, and a SportsTech Track. The programme will span over 20 stages, covering sectors including space, gaming, education, and smart cities.
The fourth edition is expected to attract increased engagement between exhibitors and visitors, featuring over 680 start-ups, more than 1,000 expert speakers, and over 1,800 global tech brands.
New features at LEAP 2025
A new SportsTech Track will explore the intersection of sports and technology. Attendees will have access to live demonstrations, industry announcements, and insights from clubs and sector leaders. Confirmed speakers include Patrice Evra, former Manchester United forward and France national team captain, and Mathieu Pierre Flamini, former French professional footballer and co-founder of GF Biochemicals.
The Tech Arena will showcase live product demos and prototypes, offering attendees a hands-on experience with emerging technologies. The Startup Stage will provide a platform for innovators and start-ups to pitch, network, and explore business opportunities.
Beyond the convention halls, LEAP Nights will feature cultural and networking events across Riyadh, including dinners, meetups, and live entertainment.
LEAP 2025 will also host investor-to-investor workshops, mentorship sessions, and a dedicated Investor Program. More than 1,500 global investors and start-ups are expected to participate in structured networking opportunities.
International speakers and participants
Confirmed speakers include Ken Kutaragi, former Chairman and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment; Javier Tebas, President of La Liga; Connie Chan, General Partner of Andreessen Horowitz; Andrea Vena, Chief Climate and Sustainability Officer of the European Space Agency; and Alex Hirschi, Chairwoman of Supercar Blondie.
Returning speakers include Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM. Previous editions have featured Eric Yuan, Founder and CEO of Zoom; Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok; and Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer of Google.
His Excellency Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, highlighted LEAP's role in advancing the Kingdom's technology sector:
'LEAP has contributed to Saudi Vision 2030 by positioning the country as a global technology hub. Moving to a ticketed format makes LEAP a more tailored experience for industry professionals. LEAP 2025 will showcase technological innovations, business opportunities, and high-level content, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's role in the global tech landscape.'
Faisal Alkhamisi, Chairman of SAFCP, added:
'LEAP has rapidly evolved, playing a key role in fostering talent, creativity, and investment. This is only the beginning. LEAP will continue to reflect the ever-changing tech landscape and bring together pioneers from around the world.'
Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, stated:
'Transitioning to a ticketed model will create a more focused experience, allowing exhibitors and participants to connect with a highly engaged audience, leading to meaningful collaborations and business opportunities.'
Over the past three years, LEAP has facilitated public and private investment exceeding $27.5bn, setting benchmarks for tech events globally and contributing to economic growth beyond the exhibition and conference floors. The upcoming edition aims to further enhance its impact and innovation potential.
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