LEAP 2026 technology event kicks off in Riyadh highlighting AI and innovation

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 2, 2026

The LEAP 2026 technology conference began in Riyadh, featuring over 1,000 speakers, 1,800 companies, and 2,000 investors to showcase advancements in AI, fintech, health tech, and more. The event aims to foster international partnerships and investments, with key regional officials, including Kuwait’s Acting Minister Omar Al-Omar, engaging in discussions to boost cooperation in communications and information technology.

The fifth edition of the LEAP technology event commenced Monday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, gathering key figures from the technology and innovation sectors under the theme “Into New Worlds.” The conference is taking place from August 31 to September 3 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre (Malham) and is organized by the Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and Tahaluf. The event is supported by global firm Informa and the Events Investment Fund.

LEAP 2026 expects participation from over 1,000 international speakers and experts, more than 1,800 technology companies, upwards of 600 startups, and nearly 2,000 investors and venture capital representatives. The event aims to facilitate partnerships, attract investment, and promote growth opportunities for technology firms and entrepreneurs worldwide.

The program highlights recent advancements in artificial intelligence, digital economy, and advanced technologies. Key features include the DeepFest AI program and various thematic tracks focusing on fintech, health technology, smart cities, education and sports technology, space exploration, gaming, and digital infrastructure. Attendees will also experience specialized zones such as LEAP Connect for partnership building, the Sports Tech Hub, the World Tech Zone highlighting global innovations, and LEAP Studios, which offers live content creation and influencer engagement. Startup and investor programs will provide platforms for announcing new agreements and initiatives.

Kuwait’s Acting Minister of Information and Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology, Omar Al-Omar, took part in the event’s opening ceremony. Following the inauguration, Al-Omar held bilateral meetings aimed at enhancing cooperation in the communications and information technology fields.

One meeting took place with Eng. Raed Al-Fayez, Deputy Governor for the Technology Sector at the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia. During their discussion, Al-Fayez briefed Al-Omar on Saudi Arabia’s achievements in communications and information technology. Kuwait’s Acting Director General of the Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT), Najat Ibrahim, was also present.

Al-Omar also met with Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Dr. Sheikh Abdullah Al Khalifa, to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation. The two officials reviewed recent developments in their countries’ information and communications technology sectors and emphasized the importance of expanding collaborative efforts. Najat Ibrahim attended this meeting as well.

LEAP 2026 continues through September 3, with further sessions, forums, and networking opportunities planned to advance global technology innovation and partnerships.

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