In a significant move to bolster its global technology alliances and enhance cooperation throughout Asia, Saudi Arabia has introduced the first international edition of its premier LEAP technology conference in Hong Kong. This expansion represents a transformation from a locally focused event in Riyadh to a global technological platform that bridges AI and technology ecosystems from East to West.
Abdullah Al-Swaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasized the Kingdom’s swift digital advancement during the opening of LEAP East. He noted that the digital economy in Saudi Arabia has surged by 75% over the past eight years, now amounting to $139 billion. Notably, the non-oil digital sector accounts for 16% of the country’s GDP. Al-Swaha also outlined plans to augment the nation’s data center capacity to 6.9 gigawatts by 2034, a move aimed at underpinning future developments in artificial intelligence.
The minister highlighted the increasing investment from major technology firms such as ByteDance, Lenovo, and Tencent in Saudi Arabia, reflecting growing international confidence in the Kingdom’s tech landscape. Furthermore, he noted a significant increase in women’s participation in the tech sector, which has climbed from 7% to 35%, surpassing participation rates in both the European Union and Silicon Valley.
The LEAP East conference, running over three days, showcases a range of innovations from Saudi and international technology companies, focusing on areas such as artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and smart government solutions. This event underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to positioning itself as a central player in the global tech industry, bridging diverse technological ecosystems and fostering international collaboration.