Leap 2026 day two sees over $2.5 billion in tech investments

The second day of the Leap 2026 conference saw the announcement of investments and major initiatives totaling around $2.5 billion, covering data centers, cloud services, technology localization, and research and development. These moves aim to strengthen Saudi Arabia's position as a global hub for digital infrastructure and advanced technologies in the smart era.

Al Moammar Information Systems Company (MIS) led the day's announcements with a $1.2 billion investment to expand data centers in the Kingdom, boosting operational capacity to a total of 192 megawatts to meet growing demand for computing and artificial intelligence services.

NHC Innovation announced the development of data centers in the Digital Khuzam Valley, with an investment of $880 million to provide scalable digital infrastructure, targeting a capacity of 65 megawatts by 2033.

Extending Saudi investment presence globally, Vision Invest and Africa Finance Corporation are leading a $300 million strategic investment in WIOCC to support the expansion of digital infrastructure in Africa and enhance connectivity and digital services across the continent.

In the cloud services sector, Mobily and BytePlus announced a joint investment exceeding $150 million to launch BytePlus cloud services in Saudi Arabia and expand access to advanced solutions for businesses and organizations.

Supporting the localization of advanced technologies and building national capabilities, HPE announced the expansion of its "Made in Saudi" program from localizing hardware to integrated technology solutions. The company also launched the Saudi Innovation Center in partnership with Intel to empower startups and national talent in artificial intelligence.

Nokia also announced the opening of its first research and development center in the Kingdom to accelerate the development of AI-powered network automation technologies and enhance research, innovation, and advanced communications solutions originating from Saudi Arabia.

The announcements on the second day reflect the Kingdom's growing appeal for both local and international tech investments, with an expanding ecosystem covering data centers, cloud services, R&D, and technology localization, as well as the global reach of Saudi investments.

Leap 2026 continues through September 3 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Mulham, bringing together technology leaders, investors, innovators, and startups from around the world to explore the future of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, and advanced technologies.