RIYADH: The fifth annual international technology conference, LEAP, opens in Riyadh on Monday, bringing together innovators, startups and investors. With the theme “Into New Worlds,” it will highlight how emerging technologies are reshaping the way people live and work. Past editions have also served as platforms for major investment announcements. More than 1,000 speakers, 1,800 technology companies, 600 startups and 1,900 investors are set to converge on the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones and Tahaluf, the event is backed by global events company Informa and the Events Investment Fund. This year’s edition builds on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s support for Saudi Arabia’s digital economy, technology and space sectors, and his commitment to empowering people and positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for technology, artificial intelligence and innovation, in line with Vision 2030. It also coincides with the Kingdom’s Year of Artificial Intelligence. The program will cover AI and advanced technologies, including DeepFest, alongside tracks focused on the latest innovations in finance, health, education, sports, smart cities, space, gaming and digital infrastructure. There will also be zones dedicated to building partnerships, sports technology, global innovations and live content creation, as well as platforms for announcing agreements and technology initiatives. Since its debut in 2022 the conference has expanded its international footprint, with the launch of LEAP East in Hong Kong aimed at linking technology and AI ecosystems between East and West. The Riyadh event aims to maximize technology’s economic and social impact while creating opportunities for Saudi talent. It will give students and entrepreneurs access to global innovations, international expertise, career opportunities and venture pathways, alongside live content and showcases of emerging technologies. Also involved