Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step in expanding its global technology footprint by launching the first international edition of its LEAP technology conference in Hong Kong. This event, known as LEAP East, aims to bolster technology partnerships and enhance cooperation within Asia. Speaking at the conference’s commencement, Abdullah Al-Swaha, the Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology, emphasized the transformation of LEAP from a local event in Riyadh to an international platform bridging AI and technology ecosystems between East and West.
Al-Swaha highlighted the Kingdom’s swift digital transformation, noting that Saudi Arabia’s digital economy has surged by 75% over the past eight years, reaching a value of $139 billion. He pointed out that the non-oil digital sector now accounts for 16% of the nation’s GDP. Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia plans to amplify its data center capacity to 6.9 gigawatts by 2034, aiming to facilitate future advancements in artificial intelligence.
The minister also pointed to the growing interest from major technology firms such as ByteDance, Lenovo, and Tencent, which have begun investing in Saudi Arabia. He additionally highlighted a significant rise in women’s participation within the country’s tech sector, which has increased from 7% to 35%, surpassing averages seen in the European Union and Silicon Valley.
Spanning three days, the LEAP East conference brings together both Saudi and international technology companies, showcasing innovations in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and smart government solutions. This event underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global leader in technology and innovation.