Major LEAP 2026 investments were announced during day three of the technology conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The financial commitments spanned multi-billion-riyal digital infrastructure developments, dedicated artificial intelligence funds, and international startup market entries across the national economy.
Khuzam Digital Valley and Cloud Infrastructure
NHC Innovation introduced the Khuzam Digital Valley data centre development, representing a total financial allocation of SAR 3.3 billion. The project will be built across several continuous phases to serve growing computing needs. The organization signed NAVER Innovation and BytePlus as its initial anchor clients.
“Through Khuzam Digital Valley, we are building the digital foundations needed to support growing demand for advanced technologies, while creating an environment that brings together global technology partners, businesses and innovators.”
Eng. Rayan Alaql, Chief Executive Officer of NHC Innovation
Meanwhile, global cloud provider AWS confirmed preparations to open its first infrastructure region in Saudi Arabia this December. The planned regional setup is supported by an investment allocation exceeding $5.3 billion.
Expansion of LEAP 2026 Investments Across Sectors
New venture funding targeted specialized software sectors, contributing to the total volume of LEAP 2026 investments recorded during the event. Regional investment platform Foras AI introduced a $20 million financing and acquisition initiative aimed at supporting artificial intelligence enterprises throughout the Middle East and North Africa.
In addition, Dubai-based accommodation platform estaie closed a $5.2 million seed financing round to expand its operations in Saudi Arabia. The firm applies machine learning systems to manage flexible residential, serviced apartment, and hotel inventory pricing.
Public Sector Alliances and Smart Mobility
The Digital Government Authority established a formal partnership with venture firm STV. Under the agreement, STV will evaluate startup investments and supply technical assessments through its specialized fund, while the authority offers testing sandboxes and regulatory channels.
Mobility leaders examined commercial deployment avenues for autonomous driving and connected logistics infrastructure. Panel participants included Mercedes Cebrian of Parkron, Dong-su Kim of LG Technology Ventures, and Ahmed Mhiri of Free2Move.
Long-Term Capabilities and Industry Growth
Discussions regarding the local gaming industry emphasized structural workforce development. Yannick Theler, Chief Executive Officer of Steer Studios, stated that investing in specialized local training remains fundamental to establishing sustainable regional game production studios.
Event organizers noted that the third day highlighted broad institutional participation across the market, as these LEAP 2026 investments direct fresh capital toward enterprise technology and digital services.
“What we have seen across Day Three is investment taking shape at every level of Saudi Arabia’s technology ecosystem, from major digital infrastructure and AI investment to startup growth and new global partnerships.”
Annabelle Mander, Executive Vice President and Co-Creator of LEAP at Tahaluf
