
LEAP 2025: What tech leaders have to say about their participation
Image: Supplied
Taha Khalifa, GM Middle East and Africa, Intel
For Intel, LEAP 2025 has offered a strategic platform to showcase its latest technological advancements and engage with a diverse audience of industry leaders, innovators, and investors.
The event's focus on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and smart cities aligns with Intel's core business areas, providing opportunities to explore collaborations and partnerships.
Ahmad Sidawi, country manager, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, Genesys
LEAP 2025 has been a great opportunity for us to present the future of customer experience and how Genesys is transforming this space through AI-powered Experience Orchestration. We've been showcasing how the Genesys Cloud platform is enabling businesses to deliver personalised and seamless customer service across every touchpoint. With innovations in AI, chatbots, and analytics, we help businesses improve engagement and enhance satisfaction. At LEAP, we've been demonstrating how companies can harness the power of intelligent automation to optimise their customer journeys, reduce operational costs, and drive growth.
Samer Diya, META VP, Forcepoint
As one of the most prominent technology shows in the region, LEAP in Saudi Arabia offers an opportunity to reiterate the importance of data security in the digital world. While AI has quickly become integral to business operations, the ongoing AI transformation has only amplified the reality that data is every organisation's top asset — which is why protecting it everywhere is critical. Coupled with shifting global regulatory requirements, businesses must understand how to proactively bolster their data security posture.
Our objective at LEAP has been to collaborate with our partners across Saudi Arabia to highlight how our 'Data Security Everywhere' approach empowers organisations to securely and compliantly navigate their unique digital and AI transformation. Prioritising data security wherever it resides has proven to be essential – especially as Saudi Arabia continues to elevate into the global AI sector through initiatives like Vision 2030 and Project Transcendence. This year, we're focused on investing in technology that delivers complete endpoint data protection, visibility and control of high-risk data, secure web usage, and secure SaaS app usage. Through our advancements in DLP, DSPM, SWG and CASB technologies, we are working with partners across the region to deliver real-time visibility and control without compromising user productivity.
LEAP has provided the ideal space to demonstrate how organisations can innovate confidently while tackling the growing demand for data security. It's also a platform for collaboration, allowing us to exchange insights, engage with forward-thinking partners, and explore solutions to today's most pressing cybersecurity challenges.
Meriam ElOuazzani, senior regional director META, SentinelOne
The Middle East continues to be a thriving hub for digital transformation, and events like LEAP spotlight the region's role in shaping the future of technology. Cybersecurity remains a cornerstone of innovation, and at SentinelOne, we are proud to lead the way with autonomous, AI-driven solutions that empower organisations to stay ahead of advanced threats. As the digital economy grows exponentially, so does the complexity of cyber risks.
Our participation at LEAP 2025 highlights our commitment to delivering hyper-resilient, automated security solutions that not only protect businesses but also accelerate their growth in an increasingly connected world. At SentinelOne, we believe in equipping enterprises with the tools to confidently embrace digital transformation without compromise. We enjoyed engaging with partners, customers, and industry leaders at LEAP, showcasing how our cutting-edge EDR, XDR, and ITDR solutions are enabling smarter, faster, and more secure innovations.
Rami Beidas, country GM for Saudi Arabia at NTT DATA MEA
At LEAP 2025, NTT DATA MEA has been showcasing a diverse range of innovative solutions that demonstrate the company's expertise in sports technology, IoT, robotics, healthcare, cybersecurity, and managed services.
NTT DATA's senior executives took to the stage at the LEAP Conference, sharing insights on key industry topics. On February 11, Christian Koch, SVP of Cybersecurity for IoT/OT, Innovations and Business Development at NTT DATA, delivered a keynote titled 'Cybersecurity in Smart Cities: Safeguarding the Digital Pulse of Urban Life'. Additionally, on February 10, Prashil Gareeb, VP of Managed Networking and Collaboration Services at NTT DATA MEA, joined a panel discussion on 'The Future of Work: Intersection of Social Enterprises and Emerging Technologies'.
NTT DATA MEA is showcasing advanced sports tech solutions designed to enhance fan engagement and sports operations. These solutions highlight advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), analytics, and digital twin technologies. The company's recent partnership with Arsenal, and other prominent sporting organisations, emphasises the relevance of its offerings to Saudi Arabia, especially as the nation gears up to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
NTT DATA is also showcasing its healthcare solutions that aim to transform patient care and operational workflows, alongside its robust cybersecurity offerings designed to counter evolving digital threats. The company's comprehensive managed services portfolio will demonstrate its ability to optimize IT infrastructure and streamline operations, reinforcing its commitment to delivering end-to-end solutions.
LEAP this year has been a great opportunity for us to engage with key stakeholders, including government entities, enterprises, and tech innovators, to demonstrate how our advanced offerings — spanning AI, IoT, smart cities, cloud, and cybersecurity — can support the region's strategic goals. We have been engaging with partners, showcasing our leadership in the technology landscape, and positioning NTT DATA as a trusted partner in delivering cutting-edge solutions to drive sustainable growth across industries in the kingdom.
Harish Chib, VP of Emerging Markets, Middle East and Africa, Sophos
At
We are also highlighting our next-generation XGS Series firewalls, which use AI to enhance performance and detect sophisticated threats in real-time, providing organisations with robust and adaptive security.
As first-time participants at LEAP, this has been a unique opportunity to reinforce Sophos' leadership in cybersecurity innovation, connect with industry professionals, and explore partnerships in this dynamic region. LEAP offers an unparalleled platform to share our vision, demonstrate how AI powers our solutions, and show how Sophos is empowering businesses to stay ahead of modern, AI-enabled threats.
Ahmad Sidawi, country manager, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, Genesys
LEAP 2025 has been a great opportunity for us to present the future of customer experience and how Genesys is transforming this space through AI-powered Experience Orchestration. We're excited to showcase how the Genesys Cloud platform enables businesses to deliver personalised and seamless customer service across every touchpoint.
With innovations in AI, chatbots, and analytics, we can help businesses improve engagement and enhance satisfaction. At LEAP, we've been demonstrating how companies can harness the power of intelligent automation to optimise their customer journeys, reduce operational costs, and drive growth.
Read:
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Zawya
11 hours ago
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia pavilion commemorates 70th anniversary of Saudi Japanese diplomatic relations
Osaka, Japan — The Saudi Arabia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka celebrates the 70th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Japan. On June 7, 1955, the two nations established formal diplomatic ties – a historic milestone that laid the foundation for a long-standing partnership. The relationship has evolved over the decades into a multifaceted alliance that promotes cultural exchange and diplomatic cooperation, with a significant economic impact for both countries. Most recently, in February 2025, the two nations signed a Memorandum for Establishing a Strategic Partnership Council, which would be chaired by the leaders of both nations. In the last decade, bilateral trade has grown significantly, from $33.4 billion to $41 billion, with trade volumes now surpassing $41 billion. At Expo 2025 in Osaka, the Saudi Arabia Pavilion is hosting hundreds of business events to foster trade and investment relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan, featuring presentations led by the Ministry of Investment and the Ministry of Commerce, as well as events focused on the opportunities presented by Vision 2030. Dr. Ghazi Faisal Binzagr, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Japan and Commissioner General of the Saudi Arabia Pavilion, said, 'The Saudi-Japanese relationship has grown from strength to strength over seven decades. It runs deeper than just economic partners. It is a testament to the depth of diversity in the relationship we have. Together, with the strength of our history behind us, and the momentum of our present, we are poised to define the future.' 'With Expo 2025 underway in Osaka and the next Expo in Riyadh in 2030, our two nations are at the forefront of global exchange, showcasing the latest innovations, sustainable technologies, and helping shape tomorrow's multilateralism,' Dr. Ghazi concluded. As Saudi Arabia and Japan look to the future, the ongoing Expo 2025 Osaka aims to increase Japanese visitation to Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom aims to attract 30,000 Japanese visitors annually in the lead up to Expo 2030 Riyadh. This forms part of the broader Saudi Arabia–Japan Vision 2030 Strategy, which includes over 80 projects involved across nine sectors: food and agricultural security, media and entertainment, medical care, high-quality infrastructure, finance and investment, competitive industries, energy, SMEs, sport, education, and culture. Cultural exchange has also blossomed as Saudi Arabia emerges as the hub in the Middle East for Japanese culture through its home-grown Manga Studios, which are on display in August at the Saudi Arabia Pavilion. along with the enthusiastic support of over 700,000 visitors to the Saudi Arabia Pavilion since April 13th2025. The Saudi Arabia Pavilion hosts over 700 events across the Expo 2025 Osaka program, including daily performances and live shows. The site offers an exciting visitor journey through seven immersive rooms. Additionally, Saudi Arabia will host its National Day on September 23rd with a full array of events and presentations. Media Contact: Email: Media@ Website & Social Media Handles: Instagram: @ksaexpo2025 X: @KSAExpo2025_ YouTube: @KSAExpo2025 LinkedIn: Saudi Arabia at Expo Facebook: KSA Expo 2025 TikTok: @ksaexpo LINE: KSA 大阪万博2025 Website:


Al Etihad
16 hours ago
- Al Etihad
Fitch reaffirms TAQA's credit rating at ‘AA Stable'
7 June 2025 15:42 A. SREENIVASA REDDY (ABU DHABI)Fitch Ratings has reaffirmed Abu Dhabi National Energy Company's (TAQA) long-term credit rating at 'AA' with a Stable Outlook, underscoring the company's robust financial profile and strategic importance to the Abu Dhabi rating reflects TAQA's classification as a government-related entity, with Fitch assuming 'virtually certain' support from the Abu Dhabi government in all financial continues to enjoy the same sovereign rating as the government of Abu Dhabi, based on the expectation that its obligations would be fully supported if needed. Alongside this, Fitch Ratings has maintained TAQA's standalone credit profile (SCP) at 'bbb+', recognising the company's solid operational fundamentals.'The standalone profile reflects TAQA's strong business fundamentals, which are supported by its dominant presence in Abu Dhabi and a substantial portion of regulated and quasi-regulated earnings. We expect higher capex in 2025-2028 to increase its funds from operations,' Fitch Ratings observed in its latest agency highlighted that regulated and quasi-regulated businesses contributed 51% and 34%, respectively, to TAQA's 2024 EBITDA, underlining the company's stable revenue base. 'It has a leading position in Abu Dhabi as a fully integrated utility,' the agency cited several factors that justify the continued strong rating for TAQA, a key player in the region's energy infrastructure. 'We see no effective substitutes for TAQA given its role in the energy system of Abu Dhabi. TAQA has a large share in power generation and water desalination, monopoly in the electricity and water transmission and distribution (T&D), and wastewater treatment,' the report strategic investments have further reinforced TAQA's position. The 2024 acquisition of Sustainable Water Solutions Holding Company (SWS) and an equity stake in Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) have bolstered the company's capabilities as a leading integrated utility. 'A TAQA default could also affect the cost of funding for the sovereign, given its large size and activity on capital markets,' Fitch expects the regulatory framework governing electricity and water T&D in Abu Dhabi to remain stable and transparent, with effective cost-recovery mechanisms that compare favourably to other emerging markets. It also anticipates continued and timely subsidy payments from the state, supporting TAQA's financial ahead, Fitch forecasts that TAQA will receive increased earnings contributions from its associate companies over 2025–2028, amounting to Dh1 billion annually, with half of that expected from ADNOC Gas, in which TAQA holds a 5% stake. 'We do not forecast any dividends from Masdar, given its ambitious growth plans and targets,' the agency remains committed to Vision 2030, particularly in transmission, distribution, water, and power generation. Fitch estimates that Dh8 billion will be injected over 2025–2026, reinforcing TAQA's long-term investment trajectory. 'TAQA also plays an important role in achieving Abu Dhabi's energy targets of 2050, through its commitment to invest around Dh75 billion in 2021–2030, of which Dh26.7 billion were invested in 2021–2024,' Fitch summary, TAQA's reaffirmed rating is anchored in its strong business profile, stable cash flows, supportive regulatory environment, and strategic position in Abu Dhabi's utilities sector, backed by the near-certain support of the government. ADQ, the sovereign wealth fund, holds over 90% stake in TAQA, which is listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange with market cap of Dh370 billion. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi


Gulf Business
2 days ago
- Gulf Business
From Saudi to Hong Kong: Tahaluf, ewpartners take LEAP global with Asia debut
Annabelle Mander, EVP at Tahaluf, along with Jessica Wong, founder and managing partner of ewpartners. Tahaluf, the organiser of Saudi Arabia's flagship technology event LEAP, has announced a strategic partnership with global investment firm ewpartners to launch LEAP East, a new Asia-Pacific edition of the mega event. It will take place in Hong Kong from 8-10 July 2026, marking the first time LEAP is held outside the Kingdom. The move underscores Saudi Arabia's deepening strategic focus on Asia and positions Hong Kong as a new gateway for Middle Eastern engagement with China and the broader region. 'With this timely and strategic expansion, we are bringing LEAP's award-winning vision and world-class innovation into this exciting new Hong Kong venture, creating a powerful platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses to connect, collaborate and build the future of technology,' said Faisal AlKhamisi, chairman of the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), during an announcement at LEAP 2025 in Riyadh. 'Attendees will engage directly with the world's leading innovators, investors, and industry pioneers, making LEAP East a must-attend event for anyone shaping the digital future,' he added. LEAP East is expected to attract over 25,000 visitors, more than 200 speakers, and 300+ exhibitors across AI, fintech, healthtech, deeptech and more. Featured speakers will include Luanne Lim, CEO of HSBC Hong Kong; Jeanne Lim, CEO of beingAI and co-creator of Sophia the Robot; and Harry Man, founding partner at Matrix Partners. The event will also feature investment zones, startup showcases and exclusive networking sessions such as LEAP East Nights. The announcement was made during the opening of ewpartners' new Hong Kong office, attended by over 100 senior officials and business leaders from Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong. Attendees included representatives from OASES, HKEX, UBS, and HSBC. Peter Yan, director general of Hong Kong's Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), said LEAP East 'could serve as a dynamic bridge between Hong Kong and the Middle East, empowering enterprises to collaborate, co-develop innovations, and unlock new market opportunities together. We appreciate ewpartners' pivotal role in making this initiative a reality, strengthening cross-regional partnerships, driving global growth through shared success, and reinforcing Hong Kong's position as a global innovation hub.' LEAP was launched in Riyadh in 2021 through a partnership with Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and SAFCSP. In 2025, the event drew 215,000+ attendees, 1,800+ exhibitors, and 1,600+ investors, generating $14.9bn in announced deals and an economic impact of $820m. Annabelle Mander, executive vice president at Tahaluf, said: 'LEAP was created in Riyadh to position Saudi Arabia as a global innovation hub. After four record-breaking editions, we're taking our next bold step, bringing LEAP to Hong Kong. This city is not only a gateway to Asia, but a proven launchpad for global ambitions. Through our partnership with ewpartners, we're proud to build a platform that unites Saudi and Asian-Pacific innovators on one world stage.' Jessica Wong, founder and managing partner of ewpartners, added: 'Our mission at ewpartners is to unlock high-value opportunities between the Middle East and Asia. We have been partnering with Tahaluf on LEAP for 5 years, and LEAP East further reflects that mission in action. Hong Kong has the connectivity, credibility, and creativity to host Asia's most ambitious tech platform, and we are honoured to help bring it to life.' The collaboration aims to mirror the impact of LEAP's Riyadh editions and drive significant business tourism and cross-border partnerships across Asia.