The initiative to create car-free, pedestrian-friendly areas aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to create a greener, more sustainable urban environment
Dubai is stepping up its commitment to sustainability with the introduction of the new Super Block initiative, aimed at creating car-free zones across key residential areas in the city.
Announced on Thursday by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the initiative is designed to enhance the urban experience by prioritising pedestrians and cyclists in residential neighbourhoods.
The initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader vision for a greener future, as laid out in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
With a focus on reducing carbon emissions, the plan aims to make Dubai a more sustainable and livable city by transforming existing residential areas into pro-pedestrian zones.
Four areas to be designated as car-free, pedestrian-friendly zones
Areas such as Al Fahidi, Abu Hail, Al Karama, and Al Quoz Creative Zone will be the first to undergo these transformative changes.
These areas will be redesigned to improve green spaces and promote social interaction through shared public spaces, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
The Executive Council of Dubai has approved the Super Block initiative, a key step in reinforcing the city’s status as a global leader in pedestrian-friendly urban environments, said Sheikh Hamdan in a post on the social media platform, X.
Further, we introduced the Super Block initiative to create car-free pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods. The Unified Digital Platform initiative was also adopted to streamline government services offered through specialized platforms such as the Dubai Now app, Invest in Dubai for… pic.twitter.com/GZesV9hXqZ
In addition to these transformative urban changes, Dubai continues to expand its wellness offerings, with the recent announcement of Therme Dubai, an innovative wellness destination that is aiming to take on the mantle of the “tallest’ resort in the world once it’s complete.
Therme Dubai will focus on creating an immersive wellness experience, combining natural thermal bathing with cutting-edge health and wellness technologies.
In December last year, Dubai also approved the Dubai Walk Master Plan, a comprehensive initiative to establish a 6,500-kilometre network of modern walkways across the emirate by 2040.
This ambitious project, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, aims to connect 160 areas with 3,300 kilometres of new walkways and rehabilitate 2,300 kilometres of existing ones.
The plan prioritises accessibility, safety, and the integration of green spaces, providing a comfortable walking experience that enhances Dubai’s livability. It also includes the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses and aims to boost pedestrian mobility from 13 to 25 per cent by 2040.
Aligning with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Quality of Life Strategy 2033, the Dubai Walk Master Plan is designed to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global leader in pedestrian and soft mobility. In addition to promoting active lifestyles and improving connectivity, the plan will feature distinctive designs that reflect the unique character of each area, with amenities such as art displays, rest areas, and commercial spaces.
The plan’s implementation will occur in three stages, beginning in 2025, and is set to transform Dubai into one of the world’s most pedestrian-friendly cities.
A line-up of sporting figures and tech industry leaders will take the stage at SportsTech – a new content track at LEAP 2025, which takes place in Riyadh from February 9-12.
SportsTech is one of two new content stages for the 2025 event, alongside Tech Arena. These additions reflect LEAP’s expansion into key industry sectors.
Saudi Arabia’s focus on sports and its Vision 2030 diversification goals have attracted major industry figures to the event.
Hosted by former France and Manchester United footballer Patrice Evra, the SportsTech stage will feature more than 30 speakers, including Javier Tebas, President of LALIGA; Dominic Thiem, Grand Slam tennis champion; Casper Stylsvig, Chief Revenue Officer, Chelsea FC; and Vinai Venkatesham OBE, former CEO of Arsenal FC, who will be attending LEAP for the first time.
Speaking ahead of the event, Javier Tebas said: “It is an honour for LALIGA to participate in LEAP, a major technology forum. I will address the key challenges and opportunities the sports industry is facing in terms of technology.”
Javier Tebas, President of LALIGA.
Other notable participants include representatives from Formula E, SailGP, the ATP Tour, the DP World Tour, the Ryder Cup, and the Commonwealth Sports Foundation. Senior representatives from global football clubs such as Newcastle United, Juventus, Chelsea FC, and Tottenham Hotspur will also share insights, along with figures from the England and Wales Cricket Board and the F1 McLaren Racing Team.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet football figures Andrea Pirlo, a World Cup winner with Italy, and Francesco Totti, AS Roma’s record goal scorer. Iker Casillas, Spain and Real Madrid’s former goalkeeper, now a commentator, and Mathieu Flamini, former Arsenal and France midfielder and now a biochemical entrepreneur, will also be part of the meet and greet.
“Sports tech is changing the way we play, train, and experience sports. I’m looking forward to attending LEAP to explore new technologies shaping the future of sport,” said Iker Casillas.
Iker Casillas, Spain and Real Madrid’s former goalkeeper, now a commentator.
The SportsTech stage is also attracting investors such as Apex Capital, a firm known for its partnerships with sports figures including McLaren Formula One driver Lando Norris, professional boxer Anthony Joshua, and former footballer Raphael Varane.
Technology’s role in advancing sports production and fan engagement will be a key focus. Topics will include AI, AR/VR, data analytics, fan engagement, sustainable sports tech, business models, and how investments are shaping the sports industry.
Recent data from Predence Research forecasts the global sports technology market will grow annually by almost 21 per cent, reaching $117.93 billion by 2034. Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 highlights its growing role in global sports, alongside events such as the Jeddah F1 Grand Prix and investments in ATP Tour tennis, Formula E, football, and esports.
“We have designed the new SportsTech track, in partnership with the Ministry of Sports, to bring leading industry figures to Riyadh next month, with discussions covering topics such as performance, fan engagement, sustainable event production, and business success,” said Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, which co-organises LEAP with the Saudi Ministry for Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP).
LEAP 2025 will run from February 9-12 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre, Malham.
This event happening on February 20, at 8:00am at The Westin Mina Seyahi Dubai, is a gathering of top real estate professionals, industry experts, and leaders—along with prospective and current real estate investors.
08:00 am: Registration & Breakfast 09:00 am: Welcome speech by Manish Chopra, Publisher, Gulf Business 09:05 am: Chair’s opening remarks by Gareth van Zyl, Group Editor, Gulf Business 9:20 am: Keynote Speech
9:30 am:Panel Discussion 1 – Will Dubai’s Property Boom Continue?
Dubai’s real estate market has been on a record-breaking run, fuelled by foreign investment, regulatory reforms, and a surge in luxury developments. However, with interest rates fluctuating and supply concerns emerging, will this growth continue, or is a slowdown on the horizon? This panel will break down the key drivers behind Dubai’s real estate boom and examine the factors that could shape its trajectory over the next five to ten years.
Key Themes:
Can the boom be sustained? Examining potential headwinds such as interest rates, rising supply, and global economic shifts.
Foreign investment and golden visas – how policy changes are reshaping demand from high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors.
The rise of off-plan sales and luxury developments – are we entering an overheating phase or still seeing healthy growth?
Speakers:
Firas Al Msaddi, CEO and Founder, fäm Properties
Fibha Ahmed, Vice President of Property Sales, Bayut
Imran Farooq, CEO, Samana Developers
Ravindra Bhiranji, MD, Anax Developers
Representative from Century Financial (Spokesperson TBC)
Image credit: Supplied photo/Gulf Business
10:00 am: Q&A
10:15 am: Keynote speech
10:20 am: Panel Discussion 2 – The New Growth Hubs: Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah
While Dubai dominates the UAE’s real estate spotlight, other emirates are making their mark as investment destinations. Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island developments, Abu Dhabi’s mega-projects, and Sharjah’s shift toward luxury and sustainable housing are changing the landscape. How do these markets compare in terms of ROI, growth potential, and investor sentiment?
Key Themes:
Ras Al Khaimah: How Al Marjan Island and the Wynn Resorts project are redefining the emirate’s real estate appeal.
Abu Dhabi: The role of government-backed investment zones and major projects like Yas Island in attracting foreign capital.
Sharjah: The emergence of high-end, sustainable developments and whether Sharjah’s affordability advantage will continue.
Speakers:
Tatiana Veller, MD, Stirling Hospitality
Thierry Delvaux, CEO, Equitativa (Emirates REIT)
Representative from Sharjah’s ALEF Group – (Spokesperson TBC)
10:50 am: Q&A
11:05 am: Keynote Speech
11:15 am: Panel Discussion 3 – UAE’s Property Market 2025: The Next Big Moves
As the UAE’s real estate sector matures, transparency, homeownership trends, and regulatory shifts are driving the next phase of growth. This discussion will explore how Dubai’s freehold expansion, new data transparency measures, and the evolving role of RERA will shape investor confidence and overall demand in 2025 and beyond.
Key Themes:
The rise of homeownership in the UAE – what’s driving the trend, and how is it changing buyer profiles?
Expansion of freehold areas – how recent policy moves are creating new investment zones and reshaping the property map.
Improving market transparency & data access – the impact of better reporting tools on pricing trends and investment strategies.
Dynamic RERA index – its evolving role in ensuring price stability and market confidence.
Supply vs. demand – will growth continue, or is the market approaching saturation?
Speakers:
Daniel Hadi, CEO Middle East, Engel & Völkers
Taimur Khan, Head of Research & Development, JLL
Louis Harding, CEO, Better Homes UAE
Representative from Grohe – (Spokesperson TBC)
11:45 am: Q&A
11:55 am: Game Changers Awards Ceremony
12:15 pm: Closing Remarks
For sponsorship opportunities and for event tickets details, please email Manish Chopra [email protected]
LEAP unveils $1m prize pool for Rocket Fuel 2025 startup competition
The Rocket Fuel Startup Pitch Competition highlights Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem and provides a platform for emerging companies to present their ideas to a global audience.
The fourth edition of LEAP, Saudi Arabia’s technology event, is set to host the annual Rocket Fuel Startup Pitch Competition.
LEAP 2025 will take place at the Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Centre Malham from 9-12 February. The competition will feature startups competing for a share of a $1m prize pool. The Rocket Fuel Startup Pitch Competition highlights Saudi Arabia’s startup ecosystem and provides a platform for emerging companies to present their ideas to a global audience.
The semi-finalists will consist of 120 startups from 40 sectors and 31 countries. Each will meet criteria related to development stage, industry focus, funding, and location, and will pitch to a panel of venture capitalists and industry leaders. Competing across six categories, 12 startups will advance to the Grand Finale on 12 February, where winners will be announced.
The competition includes six awards, recognising innovation, market potential, team strength, business model, and societal impact. The overall ‘LEAP Award,’ with a prize of $250,000, will go to the top startup across all sectors. Other category winners will receive $150,000 each. The ‘Shooting Star’ Award will go to a high-potential early-stage startup, while the ‘Scaling Star’ Award will recognise a growth-stage venture. The ‘Tech for Humanity’ Award will acknowledge a startup focused on social impact. The ‘Into New Worlds’ Award will go to a startup with transformative potential, while the ‘LEAP Landing’ Award will be given to a high-growth international startup entering the Saudi market.
In addition to Rocket Fuel, international and Saudi-based investment firms will attend LEAP 2025. Saudi firms include STV, Wa’ed Ventures, and Jada Investments, while international firms include UBS, Morgan Stanley, SC Ventures, and The Carlyle Group. The event will feature speakers from General Atlantic, PIF, Scrum Ventures, Mantis, Mindvalley, and LeapFrog Investments. The Investor Stage will cover themes related to technology investment, including sustainable finance, global collaborations, and leadership in venture capital.
The Rocket Fuel Pitch Competition is sponsored by Saudi Arabia’s National Technology Development Program (NTDP).
Four judges have been confirmed for the finale: Ahmed El Alfi, Founder & Chairman at Sawari Ventures; Vusi Thembekwayo, CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners; Lateefa Alwaalan, Managing Director of Endeavour Saudi; and Connie Chan, Board Partner at Andreessen Horowitz.
Michael Champion, CEO of Tahaluf, which co-organises LEAP with the Saudi Ministry for Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones (SAFCSP), highlighted the competition’s role in fostering innovation and investment in startups.
“Successful startups drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. Rocket Fuel showcases Saudi Arabia as a hub for startups and investors. Past winners have leveraged their recognition to expand globally,” said Champion.
Beyond Rocket Fuel, LEAP 2025 will offer mentorship and networking opportunities for startups. The pre-conference Founders Bootcamp will provide training on refining pitches and business strategies. An estimated 680 startups will attend, connecting with over 2,000 investors through LEAP 2025’s AI-powered matchmaking service. Additional opportunities include mentorship sessions and the Ecosystem Xchange, which will facilitate private meetings and networking events hosted by partners such as Carta, Angel School, and Google Cloud.
LEAP 2025 will take place from 9-12 February at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre, Malham.
Fitness First’s Mark Buchanan on its expansion, key trends driving the sector
This year is set to be a landmark one for Fitness First, with plans that not only include the launch of six new clubs across Dubai and Abu Dhabi but also a GCC-wide expansion strategy, says the CEO
We speak to Mark Buchanan, the brand’s regional leader, who shares insights on how Fitness First is evolving to meet the growing demand for integrated fitness and recovery solutions, the role of technology in shaping the future of wellness, and the company’s ambitious plans for 2025.
From AI-driven personal training to state-of-the-art club enhancements, here’s how Fitness First is redefining the fitness landscape in the region.
The fitness industry has evolved significantly over the years. From your perspective, what have been the most notable changes in the fitness sector, particularly in the Middle East, and how has Fitness First adapted to these shifts?
The fitness industry in the Middle East has transformed dramatically over the last two decades, moving from basic gym setups to comprehensive wellness hubs. Today, members expect much more than just access to equipment; they seek an immersive experience that combines fitness, recovery, and holistic wellness. Fitness First has adapted by continuously evolving our offerings.
Recently, we announced the opening of six new clubs. These new facilities include state-of-the-art equipment, outdoor gym areas, swimming pools, cold plunges, treatment rooms and infrared saunas, catering to modern fitness and wellness demands.
We’ve also partnered with LXA, a global design agency, to reimagine our existing clubs, ensuring they provide a seamless and enhanced member journey.
The trend towards health and wellness has grown substantially, with many people now focusing on maintaining a fit lifestyle. How has this shift in consumer behaviour impacted the fitness industry and how businesses like Fitness First are evolving to meet these new demands?
The shift towards a ‘fit lifestyle’ has reshaped the fitness landscape. Members now view fitness as a long-term investment in their overall well-being rather than a short-term goal. This mindset has driven demand for more holistic fitness experiences that integrate mental health, recovery, and nutrition. At Fitness First, we’ve embraced this by introducing wellness programmes, digital fitness solutions, and concept classes like reformer Pilates, yoga, sound healing, functional training and special classes and events. This time of year also sees a surge in memberships, as many individuals set New Year’s resolutions to commit to a consistently fit lifestyle.
The first quarter is always an exciting period for us, with a significant influx of members eager to start their wellness journey, and we ensure our facilities and programs are ready to meet this heightened demand. We’ve also introduced features such as ice baths and recovery zones to address the growing focus on wellness recovery and stress relief.
Additionally, our Innovation Hub allows us to test new fitness programs and equipment based on member feedback, ensuring we stay ahead of evolving demands and provide members with the tools and support to maintain their fitness resolutions year-round.
As a leader in the fitness space, you’ve seen the transition from traditional gyms to a more holistic approach to fitness that includes wellness, recovery and mental health. How has this shift changed the way you operate Fitness First in the Middle East?
This transition has been at the core of our strategy. Fitness is no longer just about physical transformation — it’s about mental clarity, emotional well-being, and recovery. We’ve aligned our offerings to reflect this holistic approach. For instance, we’ve introduced dedicated recovery zones with advanced amenities like infrared saunas, cryo chambers, ice baths, and treatment rooms.
Our clubs are also designed with social and community spaces to foster connections among members. Moreover, we offer mindfulness programmes, guided meditation, and mental health-focused workshops, recognising that mental fitness is just as critical as physical health.
Additionally, we are focusing more on fitness activities like yoga, which provides a holistic approach to overall well-being. Initiatives like World Yoga Day, pop-up workout workshops, and wellness events encourage both members and non-members to engage with their communities and explore new ways of integrating fitness into their lifestyles. By fostering these connections and providing diverse experiences, we aim to support members on every level of their wellness journey.
For busy executives and professionals who are juggling high-pressure careers, work-life balance can often take a backseat. What advice do you have for executives who struggle to prioritise fitness in their daily routines, and how does Fitness First help support them in balancing work and wellness?
For executives, fitness often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. My advice is to treat it as a non-negotiable meeting with yourself. Even 30 minutes of physical activity can significantly improve productivity, focus, resilience and mental health. Fitness First caters to busy professionals by offering flexible options, including virtual classes and digital fitness programmes that can be accessed on the go. Members have the option to access all our clubs, ensuring convenience no matter where members are at work or home.
Additionally, Fitness First offers state-of-the-art personal training sessions, eliminating the guesswork for members who may not know where to start. These sessions provide tailored guidance, ensuring that even those with limited time can make the most out of their workouts. For those who prefer group settings, our clubs feature a variety of fitness classes ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, which are perfect for quick, effective workouts.
These classes, provide an excellent alternative, making it easier than ever to stay fit while managing a busy schedule.
Fitness First has always been known for its innovative approach. Could you share some of the unique concepts or offerings that have set Fitness First apart from other fitness brands in the Middle East, and how leadership has played a role in driving this innovation?
Innovation has always been a cornerstone of Fitness First’s success. We’ve consistently introduced new concepts that redefine the fitness experience. Recent innovations include outdoor gym spaces, reformer Pilates studios, digital fitness solutions, and the integration of recovery-focused features like infrared saunas and cold plunge pools.
In addition to launching new clubs, Fitness First is committed to enhancing its existing facilities to provide members with an upgraded and seamless fitness journey. These enhancements include revamped layouts, improved space management, and the addition of advanced amenities to ensure a premium experience across all locations.
Our leadership team plays a pivotal role in fostering this innovation by listening to member feedback and staying ahead of global trends.
Initiatives like our Innovation Hub allow us to experiment with new equipment and programmes, ensuring we bring the best to our members.
Additionally, our partnership with LXA ensures our clubs are not just functional but also inspiring environments that members love to visit, creating spaces that truly cater to their evolving fitness needs.
With the fitness industry continuing to grow, what are Fitness First’s plans for expansion and growth in 2025? Are there any new markets or regions you’re particularly excited about entering, and what can members expect from these developments?
This year is set to be a landmark one for Fitness First, with plans that not only include the launch of six new clubs across Dubai and Abu Dhabi but also a GCC-wide expansion strategy. These developments are underpinned by our partnership with the renowned global design agency, LXA, which plays a pivotal role in redefining the layout and design of our gyms. This partnership ensures meticulous attention to detail in space planning and management, creating workout environments that are both functional and inspiring.
A well-thought-out gym layout not only maximises space but also enhances the overall workout experience and fosters a better mindset for members. The six new clubs, strategically located in high-demand areas, will feature advanced technology, functional training areas, recovery zones, and dedicated spaces for group exercise, cycling, and reformer Pilates — an activity that has gained significant popularity in recent years. This aligns with our goal to stay ahead of industry trends and provide members with access to the latest fitness activities.
In addition to new club openings, Fitness First is focused on enhancing its existing clubs to provide upgraded facilities and experiences for its members. From improved layouts to integrating advanced wellness features like infrared saunas and ice baths, these enhancements are designed to elevate the member journey.
A key highlight of 2025 will be the introduction of a personalised member journey, with an exclusive concierge coach programme to guide new members through their onboarding process. This initiative aims to ensure that every new member feels supported and empowered to achieve their fitness goals from day one. Members can also look forward to innovative programmes, including new fitness assessment tools to help track progress more effectively and concept-driven classes that cater to modern fitness enthusiasts.
By expanding our footprint and improving our offerings, Fitness First is committed to bringing its unique blend of fitness and wellness to even more communities, ensuring we remain the leading fitness brand in the region.
What do you envision for the future of Fitness First in the Middle East? Are there any new trends or technologies in fitness that you believe will shape the next phase of the business and enhance the member experience?
By 2025, we envision Fitness First at the forefront of integrating technology with fitness. In this age of advanced technology and AI, trends like AI-driven personal training, wearable tech, and virtual reality workouts are poised to revolutionise the fitness industry. While we are exploring the implementation of AI at Fitness First, it is certainly an area to focus on in the future.
Leveraging AI has the potential to not only enhance our business operations but also elevate the member experience by providing more personalised, data-driven fitness solutions. We’ll also continue to prioritise community-building, mental health, and recovery, ensuring that our clubs go beyond being mere fitness facilities to become holistic wellness hubs.
With our ongoing expansion, innovative programs, and a strong focus on creating meaningful member experiences, the future of Fitness First in the Middle East is bright and transformative. We are committed to shaping the next era of fitness and wellness in the region, keeping our members’ needs at the heart of everything we do.
How LEAP 2025 is shaping Saudi Arabia’s tech ambitions
LEAP 2025 promises even more with 1,800 global tech brands, 680 startups, and 1,000 expert speakers showcasing next-gen solutions in sectors such as space, gaming, education, and smart cities
LEAP 2025 is set to run from February 9-12, 2025, at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Centre in Malham.
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In just four years, Saudi Arabia’s showpiece technology event, LEAP, has gone from a bold debut to one of the most talked-about gatherings on the planet.
Now, the global award-winning conference is back for its fourth edition, set to run from February 9-12, 2025, at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Centre in Malham.
This year’s event is already making waves, not just for its scale but for its ambition. Under the theme ‘Into New Worlds,’ LEAP 2025 is taking a new direction with its first-ever ticketed model. The goal? To draw an even higher percentage of top-tier attendees — industry leaders, investors, and decision-makers — to supercharge business networking and investment opportunities.
“LEAP has enjoyed remarkable momentum from day one,” says Annabelle Mander, executive vice president at Tahaluf.
“In 2022, we set a record as the largest debut tech event in history. By 2024, we had more than tripled in size, becoming the most attended tech event in the world. Now that we’ve established our scale, we’re concentrating on delivering tangible business outcomes,” she tells Gulf Business.
Annabelle Mander, executive vice president at Tahaluf.
Last year’s stats underscore that meteoric rise: 215,000 attendees from 177 countries, 1,600 investors managing $4.5tn in assets under management (AUM), and more than $11.9bn in announced investments.
For Mander, the numbers tell a compelling story, but the real focus now is on building a vibrant ecosystem where startups, entrepreneurs, and tech giants can collaborate to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s tech-driven ambitions.
This year, LEAP 2025 promises even more with 1,800 global tech brands, 680 startups, and 1,000 expert speakers showcasing next-gen solutions in sectors such as space, gaming, education, and smart cities.
Heavyweights like Google Cloud, Huawei, Meta, Zoom, AWS, STC, Aramco, and NEOM are leading the charge. Meanwhile, other top global brands such as L’Oréal are making a LEAP debut, bringing 20 cutting-edge technologies to the show floor.
Scenes from LEAP 2024. (Images: Supplied)
Elevating Saudi Arabia’s Events Sector
LEAP has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s strategy to become a global hub and meeting point for innovation.
Behind its success is a partnership with Tahaluf, which has played a pivotal role in elevating the country’s events industry to new heights.
Tahaluf is a strategic joint venture between Informa, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and the Events Investment Fund (EIF), thereby bringing together a number of key stakeholders.
“Tahaluf’s collaboration with LEAP has been a game-changer for Saudi Arabia’s events industry,” explains Abdulaziz Alghurayr, director of office and government liaison.
“Tahaluf’s key contributions include curating an impressive lineup of global tech leaders, facilitating partnerships between local and international companies, and creating opportunities for Saudi youth to engage in the tech ecosystem through workshops, hackathons, and mentorship programmes. These efforts have elevated the quality and scope of events in the Kingdom, aligning them with international standards,” says Alghurayr.
Abdulaziz Alghurayr, director of office and government liaison for Tahaluf.
Crucially, LEAP is closely tied to the goals of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s roadmap for economic diversification and knowledge-based development.
“LEAP 2025 is a direct reflection of Vision 2030’s ambition to diversify the economy and establish Saudi Arabia as a leader in technology and innovation,” says Alghurayr.
“LEAP encourages investment in emerging technologies like AI and fintech, which are critical to building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. Furthermore, it supports the development of digital infrastructure and the empowerment of Saudi youth, particularly in STEM fields, which are central to Vision 2030’s goals,” he notes.
Alghurayr further acknowledges that Saudi authorities have been instrumental in LEAP’s success. From facilitating partnerships with global organisations to providing funding and ensuring senior officials participate in the event, the government’s involvement has created an environment where LEAP is viewed as a priority for the nation’s development.
“Government entities have actively participated in planning and executing the event, ensuring alignment with national priorities,” adds Alghurayr.
Amid this support, the scope of the event is also deepening, with a special focus on AI via DeepFest as well as a new sportstech focus.
Scenes from LEAP 2024. (Images: Supplied)
DeepFest 2025: Bringing Future of AI to Riyadh
Artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept; it is a thriving industry driving transformation across every sector.
Globally, the AI market was valued at $638bn in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.1 per cent, reaching an estimated $3.7tb by 2034, according to Precedence Research.
Saudi Arabia is carving out a significant role in this booming industry, aligning with its Vision 2030 ambition to diversify the economy through technological innovation. The Kingdom’s AI market was valued at $1bn in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.6 per cent, reaching $4 billion by 2033, as per IMARC Group.
In Saudi Arabia, these trends are complemented by large-scale government-backed initiatives like the $100 billion Project Transcendence, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global hub for AI innovation.
And as artificial intelligence continues to shape industries and redefine possibilities in Saudi Arabia and across the globe, DeepFest 2025 — which is co-located with LEAP 2025 — is set to take centre stage.
Dubbed the world’s premier AI-focused conference, DeepFest 2025 is organised by Tahaluf and powered by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).
DeepFest 2025 is expected to draw over 48,000 attendees, alongside 150 speakers and 120 exhibitors, with the Kingdom’s ambitious Project Transcendence initiative serving as its visionary backdrop.
Some of the brightest minds in AI will be speaking at DeepFest 2025, including Aidan Gomez, co-founder & CEO of Cohere; Marc Raibert, founder of Boston Dynamics; Dr. Daniela Braga, CEO of Defined.AI; and Lambert Hogenhout, chief of data & AI at the United Nations. Discussions will explore critical themes such as AI ethics, governance, and sustainability.
The event promises a mix of live demos and immersive experiences. For example, Jonathan Ross, founder & CEO of Groq, is set to present the AI Groqchip, a breakthrough in scalable AI computing, while Marcello Mari, CEO of SingularityDAO, will conduct a live interview with his AI avatar, exploring what decentralised AI could mean for humanity.
Humanoid robots by UB Tech and Pudu Robotics will share the floor with attendees, while tech couture by Dutch designer Anouk Wipprecht will blur the lines between fashion and technology with her interactive robotic dress.
The transformative potential of AI in healthcare will also be a major theme at DeepFest 2025. Jean-Charles Samuelian-Werve, CEO of Alan, will demonstrate ‘Mo,’ a Doctor AI assistant that gamifies health management through biomarker analysis and preventative care.
“DeepFest 2025 will explore how AI is transforming every sector and translate advancements into tangible solutions for a brighter future,” says Mander.
Scenes from LEAP 2024. (Images: Supplied)
SportsTech at LEAP 2025
This year, LEAP 2025 is further introducing SportsTech, a dedicated content track exploring the intersection of sports and technology. The debut of this vertical underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing professional sports as part of its Vision 2030 goals, which aim to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a global hub for innovation.
Saudi Arabia’s rapid emergence as a global sports hub provides a fitting backdrop for SportsTech at LEAP 2025. From hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034 to major events such as the Jeddah F1 Grand Prix and high-profile boxing matches, the Kingdom is proving its ability to deliver world-class sporting experiences. These achievements are underpinned by significant investments in technology, which are reshaping sports culture and production on a global scale.
At LEAP 2025, SportsTech is set to bring together industry leaders, athletes, and investors to explore how technology is transforming sports at every level.
Hosting the stage will be former France and Manchester United football legend Patrice Evra, who will be joined by more than 30 high-profile speakers and participants.
Among the confirmed names are Javier Tebas, President of LALIGA; Dominic Thiem, Grand Slam tennis champion; and Casper Stylsvig, Chief Revenue Officer of Chelsea FC.
Representatives from global organisations like Formula E, the ATP Tour, Newcastle United, and the F1 McLaren Racing Team will share insights into how cutting-edge technology is enhancing performance, fan engagement, and sustainability in sports.
“Sports tech is revolutionising the way we play, train, and experience sports,” said Iker Casillas, Spain and Real Madrid’s legendary goalkeeper, now an active investor and startup accelerator.
Attendees will also have the chance to meet sporting icons like Italy’s Andrea Pirlo, Francesco Totti, and former Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini, who has since transitioned to becoming a biotech entrepreneur.
The SportsTech stage will cover a wide range of topics, including:
AI and data analytics: How sports organisations are leveraging data to improve player performance and optimise game strategies.
AR/VR technology: Innovations in fan engagement, allowing audiences to experience sports in immersive new ways.
Sustainability: How tech is helping make global sporting events greener and more efficient.
New business models: Exploring innovative revenue streams and investments reshaping the sports industry.
SportsTech at LEAP 2025 is also attracting major investors, such as Apex Capital, known for its partnerships with figures like McLaren F1 driver Lando Norris and professional boxer Anthony Joshua. Their presence underscores the growing interest in how technology is driving the next chapter in sports innovation.
Recent forecasts by Predence Research indicate that the global sports technology market is projected to grow by 21 per cent annually, reaching a value of $117.93bn by 2034. With such exponential growth on the horizon, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a key player in this space, leveraging technology to enhance its sporting events and attract global attention.
Looking ahead
There’s no doubt that there’s a lot on the go for the team Tahaluf as it continues to build out one of the region’s biggest technology events.
Looking ahead, the company has big ambitions.
“Our focus is on remaining adaptable and responsive to emerging technologies, ensuring our content, speaker lineups, and specialized programs keep delivering genuine impact. We also benefit from strong partnerships with MCIT and SAFCSP, which help transform innovative ideas into real-world opportunities,” says Mander.
“Looking ahead, I expect to see even more advancements in AI, Fintech, Renewal Energy and Biotech, which will continue to evolve and revolutionize how we interact with the broader tech ecosystem. On a personal note, I’m especially proud of how LEAP has accelerated Tahaluf’s growth. “We now have over 100 LEAP dedicated employees in Riyadh. I feel incredibly lucky to work with such a talented, high-performing group, and I’m excited to see how we’ll keep shaping LEAP’s future and driving innovation in the years to come,” she concludes.
Scenes from LEAP 2024. (Images: Supplied)
To learn more about LEAP 2025, be sure to pick up the latest Gulf Business February issue or view the digital magazine below:
