Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step in broadening its global reach in the technology sector by hosting the first international edition of its prominent LEAP technology conference in Hong Kong. This initiative aims to enhance global technology partnerships and strengthen the Kingdom’s ties with Asia. Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah Al-Swaha, addressed attendees at the opening of LEAP East, emphasizing the evolution of the conference from a Riyadh-centered event to an international platform that bridges AI and technology ecosystems across different regions.
Al-Swaha underscored the Kingdom’s swift digital transformation, noting an impressive 75% growth in Saudi Arabia’s digital economy over the last eight years, now valued at $139 billion. He highlighted the significant contribution of the non-oil digital economy, which now accounts for 16% of the national GDP. To bolster future AI advancements, Saudi Arabia is planning to expand its data center capacity to 6.9 gigawatts by 2034, a move that reflects its commitment to supporting the burgeoning technology landscape.
The minister also drew attention to the interest of major technology companies in Saudi Arabia, citing investments from prominent firms such as ByteDance, Lenovo, and Tencent. Furthermore, he pointed out the remarkable increase in women’s involvement in the Kingdom’s tech sector, which has grown from 7% to an impressive 35%. This progress in gender parity in technology surpasses the averages found in both the European Union and Silicon Valley, marking a notable achievement for Saudi Arabia.
Over the course of the three-day conference, LEAP East is showcasing a diverse array of innovations from both Saudi and international technology companies. The event highlights advancements in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and smart government solutions, providing a platform for participants to explore cutting-edge developments and foster cross-border collaborations.