Latest news with #LEAPNights
Leaders
09-02-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Into New Worlds: LEAP 2025 Drives Saudi Arabia's Tech Ambitions
Saudi Arabia is gathering AI leaders, innovators and investors from around the globe at LEAP 2025, the world's largest tech conference. To be held from February 9-12, 2025 in Riyadh, LEAP 2025 aims to explore the future of the technology sector, accelerate innovation, and solidify Saudi Arabia's position as a global hub for technology and innovation. LEAP 2025: Largest Tech Gathering The LEAP 2025 Tech Conference is organized by the Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology; the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones; and Tahaluf, a joint venture among the federation, global company Informa PLC, and the Events Investment Fund. Under the theme 'Into New Worlds,' LEAP 2025 aims to discuss the future of the technology sector, explore the latest innovation systems, and exchange expertise in this promising field, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). Wide Participation With the participation of over 18 countries, the tech event brings together a select group of tech experts, prominent innovators, global leaders from the public and private sectors, and key stakeholders in the tech industry. LEAP 2025 will see the participation of more than 1,000 speakers and tech experts from across the world, 1,800 exhibitors, and 680 startups, offering a prize pool exceeding $1 million. The fourth edition of the tech conference focuses on harnessing technological and digital transformation, with expectations to attract more than 170,000 visitors. A Platform for Innovation LEAP 2025 returns in its fourth edition with new and exciting features that delve into new worlds, showcasing advanced technology, fostering new connections, and celebrating innovation. The tech event aims to encourage innovative solutions for global challenges by supporting innovators and startups. Moreover, LEAP 2025 focuses of building international partnerships by bringing together tech industry leaders, innovators, investors and startups to forge strategic partnerships. The grand tech conference hosts lectures and workshops presented by tech experts. It also displays the latest tech advancements of global startups. Additionally, LEAP 2025 features an accompanying tech exhibition that showcases the latest tech products and services. New Features The fourth edition of the tech conference brings new features, including the LEAP Nights. It is an immersive experience to discover Riyadh through a series of events. Tech enthusiasts, business leaders and the public can connect, learn and engage in cultural experiences during LEAP 2025. Furthermore, the Tech Arena inspires innovators with a showcase of the latest innovations. Over four days, the Tech Arena will feature live demos, interactive experiences, and cutting-edge technologies. LEAP 2025 also features the Tech Tours, guided tours which highlight the latest government, tech, AI and investor innovations. Moreover, the flagship event includes the Ecosystem Xchange feature, fostering impactful exchanges among global innovation ecosystems to drive growth, foster knowledge sharing and promote collaboration. Rocket Fuel Competition In support of startups, LEAP 2025 organizes the Rocket Fuel competition. It divides 120 startups into six categories, offering prizes that amount to $1 million. The participating startups will be classified according to size, scale, their impact on society, amount of funding, years in business, and number of employees. From February 9-11, 2025, participants will take the stage live in front of a panel of top judges, including investors and entrepreneurs. The top 12 startups will compete in the Grand Finale on February 12 to win one of six grand awards. DeepFest The DeepFest event is a global AI ecosystem that gathers thought-leaders, change-makers, big tech, data scientists, innovators, enterprises, academia, start-ups, and entrepreneurs. The event will see the participation of over 150 speakers and more than 120 exhibitors, with an expected turnout of over 50,000 visitors. Co-located with LEAP 2025, DeepFest displays the latest AI innovations and tech solutions, aiming to discover pioneering technologies, foster connections, exchange expertise, and build partnerships in the field of AI to advance innovation and strengthen cooperation among experts across various fields. DeepFest 2025 focuses on several areas, including robotics, generative AI, customer experience, machine learning, automation and large learning models. Saudi Arabia: A Global Tech Hub As one of the largest tech conferences in the world, LEAP 2025 is a further testament to Saudi Arabia's status as a global hub for technology and innovation. Under the transformative Vision 2030, the Kingdom aims to diversify its national economy, including by advancing its technology sector. Moreover, it underscores the unwavering support of the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, for the technology sector. It also aligns with the Kingdom's efforts to establish itself as the largest digital market in the Middle East and North Africa. Short link :
Gulf Business
06-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Culture and collaboration: LEAP Nights to debut in Riyadh
Image: Informa As LEAP Nights, running from February 6-13, will transform the week-long event into a dynamic blend of cultural exploration, high-tech experiences, and invaluable networking opportunities. Set against the backdrop of Riyadh's stunning landmarks and vibrant history, the programme promises an exciting mix of activities designed to engage both tech enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This year's LEAP is taking it up a notch by introducing a week-long schedule of activities around Riyadh, before, during, and after the event from February 9-12. Co-organised by Tahaluf, the Saudi Ministry for Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), and the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP), LEAP Nights will highlight the capital's unique blend of tradition and innovation. Live Entertainment, F1 and Traditional Saudi Experiences LEAP Nights will introduce visitors to TeleiosX by Telios, a luxury racing simulator that brings the thrill of Formula 1 to Riyadh. This experience not only promises an exciting race but also offers exclusive live sports streaming for fans. For those in search of adventure, an exhilarating trip to Jebel Fihrayn, also known as the Edge of the World, will take visitors to one of Saudi Arabia's most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. The limestone mountains, stretching 800km across the country, provide a panoramic view unlike any other, offering visitors a breathtaking experience at the very edge of the world. In addition to the Edge of the World, LEAP Nights will offer a hike along the Al-Manjur Trail, set in the scenic Al-Ammariya region of Riyadh. Further, a desert tour from Malham to the dunes will allow guests to enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, and a starlit bonfire in the heart of the Saudi desert. A journey through Diriyah's At-Turaif district will immerse guests in the UNESCO heritage site, where they can explore Najdi architecture and historic mud-brick houses. The cultural experiences will culminate in an authentic Najdi feast, showcasing the traditional flavours of the region. Network, learn and innovate While cultural exploration is at the heart of LEAP Nights, the event also places a strong focus on networking and innovation. Private C-suite dinners and a dedicated investor forum will offer senior executives and venture capitalists the opportunity to discuss funding opportunities, while workshops and sessions led by global thought leaders will dive into groundbreaking topics. One such feature, 'LEAP Into Innovation', organised by the Research Development and Innovation Authority (RDIA), will tackle next-gen subjects like green hydrogen, sustainable cities, and innovations in space exploration. 'LEAP Nights extends the value of LEAP 2025 by creating more opportunities for attendees to connect against Riyadh's rich cultural backdrop,' said Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf. 'These events are tailored to foster collaboration, innovation, and growth, while showcasing Saudi Arabia's vibrant culture and dynamic tech ecosystem.' Champion emphasised that the blend of professional opportunities with immersive cultural experiences would leave a lasting impression on attendees and further solidify Saudi Arabia's position as a global hub for technology and innovation.
Gulf Business
06-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
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.
