The dedicated artificial intelligence event **DeepFest 2026** will return to Riyadh from August 31 to September 3, 2026. This platform brings together global technology leaders, investors, and policymakers to explore real-world deployment of emerging technologies. Notably, the event aligns with Saudi Arabia marking 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence.
DeepFest 2026 Event Details
The upcoming edition will take place at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham. Furthermore, the event is backed by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority. The program focuses on practical applications, including sovereign infrastructure, autonomous systems, and governance.
Live demonstrations will feature real-time deepfake detection and music generated by algorithms. Meanwhile, discussions will cover how these technologies impact healthcare, supply chains, and the creator economy. Consequently, attendees can observe active deployments directly on the exhibition floor.
Key Speakers and Exhibitors
Confirmed speakers include theoretical physicist Michio Kaku and data strategist Chandra Donelson. In addition, singer Daniel Bedingfield and Oculus VR co-founder Dr. Jack McCauley will participate. These speakers will address the integration of advanced systems into enterprise operations.
The exhibition will host first-time participants such as Google Cloud, AMD, Salesforce, and EY. Moreover, other companies like Cerebras, Supermicro, Blaize, and Xerox will showcase their technologies. This participation highlights the growing interest in the technology sector of the Gulf region.
Infrastructure and Data Readiness
Organizers state that the event serves as a physical space to accelerate collaboration. Specifically, Tareq Amin, Chief Executive Officer of HUMAIN, stated that Saudi Arabia possesses the energy and infrastructure to export capabilities globally. He noted that the platform connects builders with deployers.
As enterprises transition from experimentation to implementation, scalable infrastructure becomes critical. Ali Al-Ismail, Country Manager of Snowflake KSA, stated that organizations must build strong data foundations. Therefore, governance and structured systems are essential for long-term digital transformation.
Co-location with LEAP
The **DeepFest 2026** platform is co-located with LEAP 2026, which is one of the largest technology events globally. This co-location allows participants to interact across multiple sectors, including cybersecurity, fintech, and smart cities. LEAP 2026 expects to welcome more than 201,000 visitors, 600 startups, and 1,900 investors.
The joint venture Tahaluf, which organizes these events, is a partnership between Informa PLC, SAFCSP, and the Events Investment Fund. Ultimately, the gathering aims to position Riyadh as a central hub for global innovation. The event will run for four days in late August and early September.
Attendees can register to experience the various features of **DeepFest 2026** alongside the main LEAP exhibition. In conclusion, the event represents a major milestone in the regional technology calendar.
