Saudi Arabia strengthens global AI leadership with $14.9B at LEAP 2025

Riyadh has become the center of global technological advancements with the launch of LEAP 2025, a four-day event that has attracted a record-breaking $14.9 billion in tech investments. This milestone further establishes Saudi Arabia as a leader in artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and cloud computing while reinforcing its position as the largest digital economy in the MENA region. With a digital market valued at $132 billion, the Kingdom remains the region’s top destination for venture capital, securing over 40% of total funding in 2024 through 178 deals.

H.E. Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, announced these investments while crediting HRH Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for supporting initiatives that align with the country’s Vision 2030. The investments focus on strengthening digital skills development, empowering tech startups, and expanding Saudi Arabia’s role in the global technology landscape.

The event witnessed major announcements from global technology giants, each contributing to Saudi Arabia’s rapid transformation into a leading AI and digital hub. Groq and Aramco Digital committed $1.5 billion toward AI-powered cloud computing, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global force in AI. Alat and Lenovo unveiled a $2 billion plan to establish an advanced AI and robotics-based manufacturing center while also opening Lenovo’s regional headquarters in Riyadh. Google revealed a significant investment in AI infrastructure by launching a global AI hub to meet increasing regional and international demand.

Qualcomm introduced its ALLaM language model on Qualcomm AI Cloud, designed to deliver cutting-edge hybrid AI solutions and accelerate technological advancements. Alibaba Cloud launched an AI empowerment program in collaboration with Tuwaiq Academy and STC to train local talent in advanced digital technologies. Databricks invested $300 million into Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) solutions to support app developers and foster AI expertise. Meanwhile, SambaNova pledged $140 million to build advanced AI infrastructure, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a regional innovation center.

KKR and Gulf Data Hub announced plans to expand data center development with up to 300 megawatts of capacity, enhancing the Kingdom’s cloud computing and AI capabilities. Salesforce committed $500 million to its Hyperforce platform to support regional customers, while Tencent Cloud allocated $150 million to establish its first cloud region in the Middle East, leveraging AI solutions to drive digital transformation.

LEAP 2025 serves as a defining moment in Saudi Arabia’s technological evolution, signaling its ambition to lead the global AI sector while attracting top-tier investments. By fostering innovation, equipping local talent with innovative skills, and expanding digital infrastructure, Saudi Arabia continues its transformation into a powerhouse for AI and emerging technologies, setting new standards for the future of the digital economy.