Pakistan Showcases Growing Tech Potential at LEAP 2025 in Riyadh
Muhammad Naeem:
Islamabad: The fourth edition of LEAP 2025, held in Riyadh, has once again positioned Saudi Arabia as a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure investments, securing commitments exceeding $14.9 billion.
The event, which took place at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, concluded under the theme “Into New Horizons”, emphasizing the Kingdom’s increasing role in the digital economy. This year, Pakistan’s technology sector made a strong impression, with leading startups, IT firms, and entrepreneurs actively participating in discussions and investment dialogues.
The success of LEAP 2025 is attributed to the continued support of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, whose vision has been instrumental in advancing Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation. The event aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in technology, AI, and entrepreneurship, while also fostering deeper regional collaborations.
Pakistan’s Strong Presence at LEAP 2025
Pakistan’s participation at LEAP 2025 was a significant milestone, showcasing the country’s booming IT industry and startup ecosystem. A delegation of Pakistani entrepreneurs, technology experts, and government representatives engaged in panel discussions, investment forums, and business matchmaking sessions to explore collaboration opportunities with global tech giants.
Several Pakistani IT firms and startups exhibited their cutting-edge solutions in fintech, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing, attracting interest from venture capitalists and investors looking to tap into the country’s growing digital market. Pakistan’s role in software development, IT exports, and digital services was highlighted, further strengthening its reputation as an emerging player in the global tech landscape.
Moreover, Pakistan’s Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) and leading Pakistani IT companies explored potential partnerships with Saudi investors to enhance bilateral cooperation in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies. The delegation emphasized Pakistan’s skilled workforce, competitive IT outsourcing industry, and government-backed incentives for tech businesses, making it an attractive destination for investment.
Key Announcements and Investments at LEAP 2025
LEAP 2025 brought together 200,000 attendees, 1,800 international and local entities, more than 1,000 global speakers, and 680 startups. The event facilitated major investment announcements, including:
- A $1.5 billion partnership between Groq and Aramco Digital to enhance AI-powered cloud computing infrastructure.
- A $2 billion deal between Saudi-based Alat and China’s Lenovo to establish an advanced AI and robotics-driven technology hub.
- New digital infrastructure projects aimed at positioning Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for global tech investments.
Pakistan’s engagement at LEAP 2025 marked a significant step toward expanding its footprint in the Middle East’s tech industry. With increasing government support for IT exports and a growing number of startups gaining global recognition, Pakistan’s participation in such high-profile events is expected to drive future investments and collaborations in the digital sector.
