MENA · Wamda ·

LEAP 2026 opens in Riyadh with $14.5T in investor assets represented

Saudi Arabia's flagship tech conference LEAP opens its fifth edition with 1,289 investors, humanoid robots, robotaxis, and AI as the dominant theme across 20 content tracks.

Based on reporting by Wamda — analysis by dalili

LEAP 2026 opens its doors in Riyadh today for its fifth edition, marking its evolution into one of the world's largest technology gatherings. The four-day event brings together global tech companies, investors, and innovators across AI, advanced computing, mobility, gaming, and emerging technologies.

The numbers are staggering: 1,289 investors from 1,016 firms representing a combined $14.5 trillion in assets under management are confirmed to attend. The Main Stage features Saudi Communications Minister Abdullah Alswaha alongside AMD CEO Lisa Su, Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins, and HUMAIN CEO Tareq Amin, plus leaders from NVIDIA, Google, Meta, Lenovo, and Uber.

Under Saudi Arabia's Year of AI banner, artificial intelligence threads through the entire programme. The event spans 16 stages and 20+ content tracks, with live experiences including Unitree robot dance performances, AGIBOT's A2 Ultra humanoid robot, robotaxis, autonomous delivery drones, and flying taxis.

The Rocket Fuel startup competition draws 100 finalists competing for $1 million in equity-free prizes from over 3,000 applications. LEAP Nights extends the programme across Riyadh with 60 events at 15+ venues through September 4th.

Key takeaways

  • $14.5 trillion in combined investor assets represented at LEAP 2026
  • 1,289 investors from 1,016 firms confirmed to attend
  • Live humanoid robots, robotaxis, and flying taxis on the show floor
  • 100 startup finalists compete for $1M equity-free prizes

Why it matters

LEAP's growth from a 2022 launch to hosting $14.5 trillion in investor assets in just five editions signals Saudi Arabia's rapid ascent as a global tech hub. The concentration of AI focus under the Year of AI banner, combined with live robotics and autonomous vehicle demonstrations, positions Riyadh as a serious contender for AI investment and deployment in the MENA region.