Saudi Tech Sector Gets Billions in New Investments at LEAP 2026: Data Centers, AI, and Startup Funding
The third day of LEAP 2026 in Riyadh brought a wave of new investment announcements across Saudi Arabia’s technology ecosystem, covering digital infrastructure, data centers, specialized AI funds, and startup financing. The announcements underscore growing investor confidence in the Kingdom’s digital economy.
NHC Innovation Unveils Khuzam Digital Valley Data Center Project
NHC Innovation announced the Khuzam Digital Valley data center project, with total investments reaching SAR 3.3 billion. The project will be developed in multiple phases. NAVER Innovation and BytePlus have joined as the first two anchor clients for the project.
Eng. Ryan Al-Aql, CEO of NHC Innovation, said that LEAP 2026 brings together the global technology community at a time when the Kingdom is accelerating its ambitions in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure. He explained that the Khuzam Digital Valley project aims to provide the necessary digital foundations to meet the growing demand for advanced technologies and to create an environment that brings together global technology partners, companies, and innovators.
AWS to Launch First Cloud Region in Saudi Arabia
In a sign of the scale of global investments in the Kingdom’s digital infrastructure, AWS is preparing to launch its first cloud region in Saudi Arabia this coming December. The launch is backed by investments exceeding $5.3 billion, equivalent to approximately SAR 19.9 billion.
Mobility Sector Investment Opportunities Discussed
The conference also highlighted investment opportunities in the mobility sector during a session titled “Investing in the Future of Mobility.” The session discussed the growing opportunities in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, connected infrastructure, and smart logistics solutions.
Participants emphasized the importance of directing investments toward technologies that can address operational challenges and provide clear opportunities for commercial growth. They also stressed the need to enhance collaboration between investors, technology companies, operators, and the public sector to scale the deployment of modern solutions.
Foras AI Announces $20 Million Investment and M&A Initiative
In the artificial intelligence sector, Foras AI, a platform specializing in AI investment in the Middle East and North Africa region, announced investments and a merger and acquisition initiative valued at $20 million, equivalent to approximately SAR 75 million. The initiative aims to support and acquire AI companies in the region.
Digital Government Authority and STV Form Strategic Partnership
The Digital Government Authority and STV announced a strategic partnership to accelerate innovation in digital government services and artificial intelligence. The partnership will support startups and evaluate investment opportunities through STV’s fund specializing in AI and emerging technologies. The Authority will provide government use cases, an innovation testing environment, procurement opportunities, and pathways for regulation and financing.
Gaming Sector Focuses on Local Talent Development
Investments also extended to the gaming sector. Conference sessions focused on developing local competencies and skills as a foundation for building a Saudi industry capable of competing globally. There was also an emphasis on the importance of adapting international experiences to the nature of the local market.
estaie Secures Seed Funding for Saudi Expansion
In the digital hospitality sector, the estaie platform announced a seed funding round of $5.2 million, approximately SAR 19.5 million, to accelerate its expansion in the Saudi market. The platform leverages AI technologies for pricing, inventory management, and the booking experience.
Annabelle Mander, Senior Vice President of the LEAP alliance and co-founder of the conference, stated that the investments announced during the third day reflect growing confidence in the opportunities the Kingdom offers. She noted that the new commitments span from digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence to startup growth and global partnerships, reinforcing LEAP’s role as a platform that brings together technology leaders, investors, and innovators to turn ambitions into tangible steps.
