Kingdom’s flagship AI platform to showcase cutting-edge innovation, infrastructure, governance, and real-world AI applications
DeepFest 2026, the Middle East’s premier artificial intelligence and deep technology event, will return to Riyadh from August 31 to September 3, co-located with LEAP 2026. The event arrives at a defining moment for the Kingdom as Saudi Arabia officially designates 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence, reinforcing its ambition to become a global hub for AI innovation, investment, and technology leadership.
DeepFest serves as a key platform connecting global technology leaders, policymakers, investors, researchers, startups, and innovators to explore the future of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. The event is expected to play a central role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s national AI agenda while fostering international collaboration across the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem.
“DeepFest is where the global AI ecosystem comes together to showcase real innovation, practical deployment, and the technologies that will shape the next phase of digital transformation.” — Basma Dawwas, Director of LEAP Events
According to organizers, DeepFest 2026 will focus on practical AI deployment and enterprise adoption. Discussions will span AI governance, sovereign AI infrastructure, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, healthcare innovation, supply chain transformation, and the creator economy. Attendees will also experience immersive demonstrations, including real-time deepfake detection technologies and AI-generated music performances, highlighting how artificial intelligence is moving from experimentation to real-world implementation.
“DeepFest has always been about bringing together the people building what’s next in AI, not just talking about it,” said Basma Dawwas, Director of LEAP Events. “This year’s program focuses on real-world applications, infrastructure, governance, and technologies that attendees can experience firsthand.”
The event will feature globally recognized speakers, including theoretical physicist Michio Kaku, AI strategist Chandra Donelson, musician and producer Daniel Bedingfield, and Oculus VR co-founder Dr. Jack McCauley. Their participation underscores the growing convergence of technology, business, science, and creativity within the AI landscape.
DeepFest 2026 has also attracted major international technology companies such as Google Cloud, AMD, Salesforce, EY, Cerebras, Supermicro, Blaize, and Xerox, reflecting increasing global confidence in Saudi Arabia’s expanding AI ecosystem.
Co-located with LEAP 2026, which is expected to attract more than 200,000 attendees, 600 startups, and 1,900 investors, DeepFest is positioned to become one of the world’s most influential AI gatherings. The event further strengthens Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a leading destination for artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and next-generation technology innovation.
