Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 received a significant boost on the second day of the LEAP 2025 technology conference, with investment deals worth $7.5 billion signed in Riyadh. The event, a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s digital transformation strategy, saw a flurry of high-profile announcements focused on artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, connectivity, and sustainability.

Among the major deals, the largest came from DataVolt, which unveiled a landmark $5 billion investment in the world’s first net-zero 1.5-gigawatt data center, set to be located in NEOM’s Oxagon. Rayan Fayez, Deputy CEO of NEOM, emphasized that this investment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to renewable energy and sustainable urban development, complementing previous initiatives in green hydrogen and smart infrastructure.

Highlighting the importance of AI in driving digital transformation, the Saudi Ministry of Communication and Technology announced on February 10 that Zoom had pledged $75 million to establish new data centers in the country. The ministry’s statement on X (formerly Twitter) outlined that this investment aims to support local tech companies, government entities, and regional digital acceleration efforts.

Similarly, telecommunications giant Mobily revealed a bold $900 million investment strategy aimed at expanding data centers, enhancing submarine cables, and strengthening cross-border connectivity to support growing AI-driven demands. CEO Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Badran detailed that Mobily’s data center capacity would reach 39 megawatts, with 13 MW already completed and set to become operational by the end of the first quarter of 2025. The firm’s submarine cable projects will also help fortify digital infrastructure by linking Africa and the Gulf to the Red Sea.

Saudi industrial conglomerate Alfanar underscored its role in the Kingdom’s digital transformation by announcing a $1.4 billion investment in four new data centers across two cities. Amer Al-Ajmi, Alfanar’s executive vice president, described this move as a pivotal step in accelerating the nation’s technological progress. Alfanar’s track record includes the rapid deployment of five million smart meters within just 13 months, showcasing the company’s ability to execute large-scale infrastructure projects efficiently.

Zoom’s commitment to Saudi Arabia was further reinforced by its Global Chief Information Officer, Gary Sorrentino, who reiterated the company’s long-term vision for the region. Vice President Mohannad Al-Kalash, responsible for the Middle East, Turkiye, Africa, and Pakistan markets, disclosed plans to establish a new data center in Riyadh, strengthening the Kingdom’s digital ecosystem.

In parallel, SkyFive Arabia announced a $100 million investment to expand operations in Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and South Africa. CEO Mohamed AbdelRehim revealed the company’s ambition to connect more than 1,000 aircraft with high-speed inflight internet. The firm’s initiative will provide onboard connectivity speeds of up to 100 megabits per second, bringing airline passengers an internet experience comparable to home broadband.

Multinational technology giant Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) made headlines by announcing the localization of its HPE Aruba networking equipment manufacturing within Saudi Arabia. Managing Director Mohammad Al-Rehaili confirmed that over 20,000 units will be produced annually, enhancing local supply chain efficiency by 30% and reducing dependence on international imports.

Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) also took a significant step in the Kingdom’s telecom sector by securing a license from the Communications, Space and Technology Commission to lease its telecom infrastructure commercially. Infrastructure Vice President Abdullah Al-Yousef stated that SAR would leverage its fiber optic and telecom tower network to improve connectivity across the nation.

As one of the world’s largest technology conferences, LEAP 2025 continues to attract global investors and pioneers in AI, digital infrastructure, and sustainability. Running until February 12, the event underscores the Kingdom’s ambitions to establish itself as a leading hub for technological innovation.

Vice Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Haytham Al-Ohali, reflected on the evolution of LEAP since its inception in 2022. “When we started LEAP, it was about bringing four key elements together: substantial investments, industry leaders and knowledgeable speakers, the latest global technology, and cutting-edge innovation from our entrepreneurs and startup community.”

The results of these efforts have been remarkable. Over the past three years, Saudi Arabia has attracted more than $30 billion in tech investments, with an additional $14.9 billion announced during the first day of LEAP 2025. Al-Ohali also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to AI accessibility, stating, “Saudi is playing its part in democratizing AI inferencing for over 4 billion people worldwide.”

Saudi Arabia’s investment spree at LEAP 2025 signals a paradigm shift in the nation’s approach to technology, AI, and digital connectivity. The conference has not only strengthened the Kingdom’s global standing in the tech sector but has also underscored its long-term vision of becoming a digital powerhouse.

As these ambitious projects unfold, Saudi Arabia is poised to lead the region’s technological revolution, bridging the gap between infrastructure, AI innovation, and sustainability. With billions pouring into data centers, connectivity solutions, and smart technologies, the Kingdom is solidifying its position as a global leader in the digital age.

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