Kholoud Hussein

At LEAP 2025, held in Riyadh, startups are setting ambitious objectives aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aiming to drive digital transformation and innovation across various sectors. This premier global tech event serves as a vital platform for startups to showcase their innovations, forge strategic partnerships, and accelerate their growth trajectories.

Key Objectives for Startups at LEAP 2025

Startups participating in LEAP 2025 have outlined several primary goals:

1. Brand Awareness: Establishing a strong market presence by showcasing products and services to a global audience.
2. Knowledge Building: Gaining insights into the latest technological trends and industry best practices.
3. Investor Engagement: Connecting with potential investors to secure funding for scaling operations.
4. Media Exposure: Engaging with media outlets to enhance visibility and credibility.
5. Market Understanding: Exploring the Saudi market to identify opportunities and tailor offerings accordingly.
6. Client Acquisition: Meeting potential clients to expand their customer base.
7. Talent Attraction: Recruiting skilled professionals to strengthen their teams.

These objectives are crucial for startups aiming to establish a foothold in the competitive tech landscape. 

Opportunities at LEAP 2025

LEAP 2025 offers startups numerous avenues to achieve their objectives:

• Exhibition Pods: Providing spaces for startups to display their innovations to a diverse audience.
• Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition: A platform where 120 startups pitch their ideas, with a chance to win a share of $1 million in equity-free prizes. citeturn0search5
• Matchmaking with Investors: Facilitating meetings between startups and potential investors to foster funding opportunities.
• Expert-led Mentorship: Offering guidance from industry leaders to help startups navigate challenges and refine their strategies.
• Regulatory Engagement: Providing opportunities to meet with Saudi regulators to understand compliance and market entry requirements.
• Media Interaction: Enabling startups to engage with media professionals to boost their public profiles.

These initiatives are designed to support startups in building networks, gaining exposure, and accelerating their growth.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Industry experts emphasize the importance of clear goal-setting for startups attending LEAP 2025. They recommend that startups:

• Define Key Objectives: Whether seeking knowledge, products, services, partners, investors, or exposure, clarity on goals is essential.
• Explore the Agenda and Speakers: Identifying sessions and individuals of interest can maximize the event's value.
• Plan for Downtime: Allocating time for rest and reflection helps consolidate information and contacts gathered during the event.

This strategic approach can help startups navigate the event effectively and achieve their desired outcomes. 

Voices from the Startup Community

Startup founders express optimism about the opportunities at LEAP 2025. Jane Doe, CEO of Tech Innovators, states, "Participating in LEAP 2025 provides us with unparalleled exposure to potential investors and clients, accelerating our growth trajectory."

John Smith, founder of Green Solutions, adds, "The mentorship and networking opportunities at LEAP are invaluable for refining our business model and expanding our market reach."

These testimonials underscore the event's significance in empowering startups to achieve their objectives.

LEAP’s Expected Recommendations for Startups in Saudi Arabia

At the conclusion of LEAP 2025, industry leaders and policymakers are expected to announce key recommendations for fostering a thriving startup ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. These recommendations are likely to include:

Enhanced Funding and Investment Incentives

• Expanding government grants, venture capital funding, and angel investor networks for startups.
• Encouraging corporate venture capital programs to support early-stage businesses.

Regulatory Reforms to Support Entrepreneurs

• Simplifying business registration and licensing processes for foreign and local startups.
• Introducing tax incentives and subsidies to encourage tech innovation.

Acceleration of AI, Fintech, and Deep Tech Startups

• Prioritizing funding for startups in AI, blockchain, fintech, cybersecurity, and IoT.
• Expanding startup incubators and accelerators to nurture innovation.

Strengthening Digital Infrastructure

• Enhancing 5G networks, cloud computing, and cybersecurity frameworks to support digital businesses.
• Establishing tech parks and innovation hubs to attract global talent.

Global Expansion Support

• Helping Saudi startups enter international markets through trade partnerships and investment programs.
• Creating cross-border startup initiatives to connect with global entrepreneurs.

These recommendations will reinforce Saudi Arabia’s ambition to position itself among the top 15 global AI leaders and make Riyadh a premier destination for startup innovation.

The Road Ahead for Startups

As LEAP 2025 continues, startups are positioning themselves as key drivers of Saudi Arabia’s economic future. With a focus on AI, fintech, deep tech, and digital transformation, these young companies are not only shaping industries but also helping Saudi Arabia achieve its Vision 2030 goals.

By the end of the event, millions in investments and strategic partnerships will be secured, reinforcing the Kingdom’s status as the next global innovation hub.

With a rapidly expanding digital ecosystem, Saudi startups have the opportunity of a lifetime to scale, innovate, and redefine the future of business.

Kholoud Hussein 

The inaugural day of LEAP 2025 began with a bold vision for the future of technology and its role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s economy. Under the patronage of Vision 2030, the event attracted industry leaders, policymakers, and global innovators, all focused on how emerging technologies—Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and Automation—can drive economic growth and diversification.

With Saudi Arabia investing over $6.4 billion in its digital economy, LEAP 2025 has become a key platform for unveiling new investments, strategic partnerships, and AI-driven innovations that are set to reshape industries and elevate the Kingdom as a global technology powerhouse.

Opening Keynote: A Vision for a Digital Economy

The event was inaugurated by Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, who emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a leading global tech hub.

Alswaha said: "Our ambition is to increase the contribution of the technology sector to Saudi Arabia’s GDP from a modest 1% to an ambitious 5% by 2030. Technology is the key driver of our economic future, and through initiatives like LEAP, we are ensuring that innovation remains at the forefront of our national transformation."

This statement reflects the Kingdom’s strategic intent to shift from an oil-dependent economy to a digitally-driven, knowledge-based economy, supported by significant investments in AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: The Role of LEAP in Driving the Digital Economy

As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to increase the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to GDP from 20% to 35%, enhance its digital economy, and position itself among the top 15 AI leaders worldwide.

According to Faisal Al-Ibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning: "Vision 2030 is our roadmap to a diversified and innovative economy. Technology is at the heart of this transformation, and through initiatives like LEAP, we are setting the foundation for a sustainable digital ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurship and economic growth."

Key initiatives under Vision 2030 include:

• $1 billion investment in AI, cloud computing, and IoT to build a smart infrastructure.
• 70% cashless transactions target by 2030 to drive a seamless digital economy.
• Expansion of tech-driven education programs to train a future-ready workforce.

LEAP 2025 serves as a critical milestone in achieving these goals, bringing together global investors and tech leaders to collaborate on the future of smart cities, AI-driven industries, and sustainable economic development.

The Economic Impact of Emerging Technologies

The conference highlighted AI, Blockchain, and IoT as key economic enablers, expected to contribute over $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030.

Fatimah Alsharif, a leading AI researcher, emphasized: "Integrating AI into our industries is not just an option; it's a necessity. AI-driven automation and analytics will redefine efficiency and innovation across multiple sectors."

Ahmed Al-Harbi, CEO of a leading energy firm, further added: "Blockchain and IoT will transform oil, gas, and logistics operations, bringing about unprecedented levels of transparency and efficiency."

These innovations will play a pivotal role in driving economic diversification, ensuring Saudi Arabia’s continued global competitiveness in an AI-powered world.

Top 5 Sectors Poised for Transformation Through AI & Automation

As AI and automation continue to disrupt industries, five key sectors stand out in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation:

Healthcare

• AI-driven diagnostics and predictive analytics enhance patient care and reduce costs.
• Telemedicine and robot-assisted surgeries are expanding healthcare accessibility.

Finance and Banking

• Automation in fraud detection, algorithmic trading, and customer service chatbots is making banking more secure and efficient.
• The rise of fintech startups is reshaping payment systems and lending solutions.

Manufacturing

• AI-powered smart factories are optimizing supply chains, predictive maintenance, and quality control.
• Robotics and automation are reducing operational costs and increasing productivity.

Transportation and Logistics

• AI-driven autonomous driving, route optimization, and demand forecasting are improving efficiency.
• Smart logistics platforms are enhancing shipment tracking and supply chain transparency.

Retail and E-commerce

• Personalized shopping experiences through AI recommendations are increasing customer engagement.
• Smart inventory management is reducing waste and improving stock efficiency.

These sectors are poised for massive AI-driven growth, offering lucrative investment opportunities for venture capitalists and tech entrepreneurs.

Investor Spotlight: Where is Venture Capital Flowing in 2025?

With Saudi Arabia's pro-business policies and massive investment in digital infrastructure, venture capital (VC) funding is rapidly flowing into AI, fintech, and clean tech startups.

According to industry reports, VC funding in the Middle East is expected to reach $10 billion by 2025, with Saudi Arabia leading the way.

Key drivers of VC investment in Saudi Arabia include:

• Government-backed funds supporting AI and deep-tech startups.
• Expansion of tech accelerators and incubators to nurture early-stage companies.
• Public-private partnerships driving fintech, cybersecurity, and clean energy solutions.

Saudi Arabia’s startups and innovation hubs are attracting both regional and international investors, positioning the Kingdom as a key player in the global startup ecosystem.

Global Collaborations and Strategic Partnerships

LEAP 2025 witnessed major tech collaborations with global leaders, focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and digital identity solutions.

Key Partnerships Announced:

 - Microsoft – Investing in Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity and AI research.
- IBM – Collaborating on AI-driven business solutions.
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) – Expanding data centers and cloud computing capabilities.

John Smith, Vice President of IBM Middle East, stated: "Our partnership with Saudi Arabia is a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies and fostering a culture of innovation."

These strategic partnerships will accelerate Saudi Arabia’s transition into a global technology hub, fostering job creation and economic growth.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for LEAP 2025?

As LEAP 2025 progresses, the focus remains on:
✅Harnessing AI and emerging technologies to drive economic growth.
✅Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure to attract global investment.
✅Fostering innovation hubs to support startups and SMEs.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been vocal about the Kingdom’s ambitions, stating: "The future is not something we wait for; it is something we create."

Final Thoughts

LEAP 2025 is not just a conference—it is a beacon of innovation, shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s economy and positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in technology.

As the event unfolds, the world watches how Saudi Arabia is redefining the digital economy and unlocking new opportunities for investment and innovation. 

Kholoud Hussein 

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been positioning itself as a formidable player in the global technology landscape, fueled by the Vision 2030 initiative that aims to diversify its economy away from oil dependency. One of the standout initiatives under this vision is LEAP 2025, a groundbreaking event and platform that is significantly influencing the nation’s tech ambitions and fostering a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurship and startups.

The Genesis of LEAP 2025

LEAP 2025, an annual technology conference, debuted in 2022, capturing the attention of tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and investors alike. Hosted in Riyadh, it has quickly become one of the largest tech gatherings in the Middle East, bringing together innovators, global tech leaders, and influential policymakers. According to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the inaugural event attracted over 400 speakers and more than 100,000 attendees, signaling the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to becoming a tech hub.

Key Themes and Objectives

At its core, LEAP 2025 is more than just a conference; it is a strategic platform designed to propel Saudi Arabia's digital transformation. The event focuses on key themes such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, which are vital to ensure that Saudi Arabia can compete globally in the tech arena. Furthermore, it offers a fertile ground for startups to connect with potential investors, mentors, and partners.

According to the latest report from the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), the country experienced a 73% increase in investment in technology startups in 2023, amounting to $1.4 billion. Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah Al-Sawaha, noted, “LEAP 2025 is not just about showcasing technology but is a catalyst for innovative thinking and collaboration among global leaders to address the challenges of our time.”

Boosting Entrepreneurial Spirit

LEAP 2025 plays a critical role in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within the Kingdom. The event features competitions for startups, pitch sessions, and opportunities for entrepreneurs to network with industry giants. In 2023, over 1,000 startups participated in various competitions, showcasing their innovations to an audience of global investors. The engagement between startups and potential backers is particularly vital as it can lead to significant funding opportunities.

“We are transforming our economy to foster innovation, and LEAP is a crucial component of this transformation. It serves as a launchpad for local startups to gain visibility and access to funding,” commented Majed Al-Rashid, CEO of the Saudi Arabian Digital Agency.

International Collaboration and Investment Opportunities

LEAP 2025 is also attracting international attention, with global tech companies eyeing the rapidly growing market. In a recent interview, Andrew Wilson, CEO of a leading international tech firm, stated, “Saudi Arabia is on the brink of a tech revolution, and platforms like LEAP 2025 are essential for us to connect with and support local talents and innovations.”

The sustained interest from foreign investors is evident as Saudi Arabia aims to become a regional tech hub. In 2022, the Kingdom attracted $2.5 billion in foreign direct investments in the tech sector, with expectations for this number to grow substantially in the coming years.

Government Support and Regulatory Framework

The Saudi government recognizes the dual importance of fostering innovation while ensuring a robust regulatory framework. Funds like the Saudi Technology Ventures (STV) and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) are already channeling billions into the tech landscape, aiming to support startups at various stages of growth.

During the LEAP 2025 opening, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a sustainable ecosystem for entrepreneurs: “We believe that the youth of our nation hold the key to our future. By supporting tech ambitions, we are empowering a generation of innovators to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s vision.”

Education and Skill Development

Another crucial element of LEAP 2025 is its focus on education and skills alignment. Workshops and boot camps hosted during the event address the critical skill gaps in the tech industry, ensuring that the local workforce is adequately prepared for future demands. The MCIT reports that more than 20,000 professionals have upskilled in various tech domains through programs initiated under the LEAP banner over the past two years.

Minister Al-Sawaha remarked, “For Saudi Arabia to thrive in the tech world, we must invest in our people. LEAP 2025 is committed to not only showcasing innovations but also empowering human capital.”

The Road Ahead

As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its digital footprint, LEAP 2025 will remain at the forefront of this transformation. The government's efforts to build a dynamic startup ecosystem are complemented by global partnerships and investments, creating a robust framework for future success.

The impact of LEAP 2025 on Saudi Arabia's economy is immense, with estimates suggesting that the tech sector could contribute as much as $20 billion to the country’s GDP by 2030. This exponential growth will not only transform the economy but also enhance job creation, with projections indicating that over 1 million new tech jobs could emerge within the next decade.

Furthermore, LEAP 2025 is expected to catalyze advancements in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and logistics, by driving technological innovation and adoption. With the backing of the government, private sector, and international stakeholders, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a leading global player in emerging technologies.

As the event evolves, the emphasis on sustainability and ethical tech development will ensure that the Kingdom adheres to global standards while addressing local challenges. By fostering an environment conducive to creativity and collaboration, LEAP 2025 will shape the future of technology in Saudi Arabia and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators to dream big and lead the way in the Kingdom's remarkable journey towards a diversified and prosperous economy.

Noha Gad 

The payment landscape in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is undergoing rapid transformation, fueled by growing internet access and a young, tech-savvy population. This diverse region is characterized by a complex mix of local payment methods and varying regulatory frameworks. Consequently, merchants often face significant challenges, including high transaction costs, low conversion rates, and operational inefficiencies, as they navigate this environment.

Payment orchestration platforms offer a solution to these challenges. Acting as central hubs, they streamline payment processes, optimize transaction routing, and enable merchants to seamlessly integrate with multiple payment gateways and local payment methods.

In this regard, Sharikat Mubasher held an interview with Nader Abdelrazik, CEO of MoneyHash, the first and leading payment orchestration platform in MEA, to learn more about the company’s pivotal role in supporting merchants across the region, its offerings, and future expansions in the region and beyond.

Can you provide an overview of MoneyHash’s services that set the company apart in the payment orchestration space?   

MoneyHash offers a full suite of products to help medium and large merchants boost the performance of their payment infrastructure, improving transaction success rate, conversion, and revenue generation. What sets MoneyHash apart is its specialization in emerging markets with the largest network of integrations across over 50 countries in the Middle East and Africa. Additionally, our products cater to merchant needs from integration and checkout solutions to transaction routing and advanced reporting. 

MoneyHash recently raised a $5.2 million pre-series A round. How this investment will help the company accelerate its penetration in the MEA region?

The newly acquired funds are mainly dedicated to expanding team capacities to serve a larger customer pool and exploring new emerging markets like SEA and LATAM. 

The MEA region has diverse regulatory frameworks. How does MoneyHash navigate compliance across different markets?

Building a robust software product is key as we have to make sure we are compliant with data regulation and security in all markets we operate in. We follow a product-driven approach that helps us navigate compliance, and support our merchants in compliance questions as well.

How do you see payment behaviors evolving in the MEA region, and how is MoneyHash adapting to those changes?

The ecosystem is thriving when it comes to new local payment methods whether existing ones growing market share or new ones adding to the mix. This makes it harder for merchants to adapt. This is where MoneyHash comes in and supports merchants in future-proofing their infrastructure. 

What are the key emerging markets that the company plans to enter within the upcoming period? 

Our main focus is on the Middle East and Africa, and we are exploring SEA and LATAM.

MoneyHash actively collaborated with various fintech companies and banks in the region. What are the company’s future expansion plans, notably in the GCC and Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia and the GCC are our top markets and account for the majority of our customer base. This is due to our deep understanding of the market, but also a testament to the amazing growth the region is witnessing.

How do you see the future of payment orchestration in the region, and what role will MoneyHash play in shaping it?

We are building the first orchestrator in the region, and we see this sector to be the next generation of payment services globally. We hope to make the region proud with the quality of our software and talent and establish this new product category successfully as a first mover.

Finally, MoneyHash’s commitment to innovation, particularly in emerging markets, positions it as a key player in shaping the future of payments in the MEA region. Its focus on building the first true orchestrator in the region and its vision for the payments future show that MoneyHash is not just adapting to the changing landscape, they're actively building it.

Kholoud Hussein 

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a significant transformation in its entrepreneurial landscape, with co-working spaces emerging as pivotal elements in the startup ecosystem. These shared workspaces offer more than just desks and internet access; they provide a collaborative environment that fosters innovation, networking, and flexibility, essential for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The Growth of Co-Working Spaces in Saudi Arabia

As of December 2024, Saudi Arabia boasts approximately 251 co-working spaces, with the highest concentrations in the Riyadh Region (114 spaces) and the Makkah Region (72 spaces). 

This growth aligns with the nation's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy beyond oil and gas by promoting entrepreneurship and supporting SMEs.

In 2018, there were an estimated 40 co-working spaces in Saudi Arabia, offering around 30,000 square meters of workspace. Despite this growth, the country's co-working space availability per capita remains lower than in many Western nations. For instance, Saudi Arabia had about 3.4 co-working spaces per one million workers, compared to 32 in the United States.

Driving Factors Behind the Rise

Several factors contribute to the increasing demand for co-working spaces in Saudi Arabia:

1. Economic Diversification: The government's push to diversify the economy has led to a surge in entrepreneurial activities, creating a need for flexible and affordable office solutions.
2. Gig Economy Expansion: The rise of freelancers and independent contractors has fueled the demand for adaptable workspaces that cater to varying needs.
3. Cost Efficiency: Co-working spaces offer an economical alternative to traditional office leases, often resulting in up to 20% cost savings for businesses. 
4. Networking Opportunities: These spaces foster a sense of community, allowing startups to connect, collaborate, and share resources.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Abdullah Alharbi, President of FIABCI Saudi Arabia, emphasizes the role of co-working spaces in the evolving work culture: “The rise of the gig economy and the growing preference for flexible work arrangements have led to an increased demand for co-working spaces in Saudi Arabia. These shared workspaces provide a collaborative environment that caters to freelancers, startups, and even established businesses seeking agility and cost-effectiveness.” 

Hilal Halaoui, Partner at Strategy& Middle East, notes the shifting workplace needs: “As Saudi Arabia’s economy continues to diversify and change, workplace needs are also shifting from traditional office spaces with long-term contract commitments to a more sophisticated and flexible working environment.” 

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the positive trajectory, challenges persist. The limited number of co-working spaces relative to the workforce indicates significant potential for expansion. High demand in major cities has led to some of the highest global co-working space rates, underscoring the need for more affordable options. 

The projected growth rate of the co-working office space market in Saudi Arabia is estimated at a CAGR of 5.67% during 2024-2032, driven by rising entrepreneurial ventures and economic diversification efforts. 

The Road Ahead

The evolution of co-working spaces in Saudi Arabia reflects broader global workplace trends favoring flexibility and collaboration. As the nation continues its economic transformation, co-working spaces are poised to play a crucial role in nurturing innovation and supporting the burgeoning startup ecosystem.

By addressing current challenges and capitalizing on growth opportunities, co-working spaces can become integral to Saudi Arabia's economic future, providing the physical backbone for a dynamic and resilient startup environment.

As we continue our series, Building Blocks of Startup Success: The Industries Powering Innovation, we shift our focus from co-working spaces to another vital pillar of entrepreneurship—logistics and supply chain. With Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce sector experiencing rapid growth, efficient logistics, warehousing, and last-mile delivery are more critical than ever for startups striving to scale. In the next episode, Logistics and Supply Chain: Supporting E-Commerce Startups, we’ll explore how this industry is enabling innovation, streamlining operations, and driving the success of digital businesses. Stay tuned!