LEAP 2026 in Riyadh is highlighting the expanding role of Saudi women in technology, entrepreneurship and digital economy leadership.
The fifth edition of the global technology conference and exhibition is bringing together around 1,000 speakers, 1,800 global technology companies, 600 startups and more than 1,900 investors. Announcements made at the opening included artificial intelligence and advanced technology investments, partnerships and launches worth more than $15B, according to the announcement.
Against this backdrop, Saudi women are moving beyond technology adoption into fields including artificial intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, software, cloud computing, research and development, and tech entrepreneurship. Their participation is also growing in project management, governance, risk management and other decision-making roles.
The shift reflects broader changes in Saudi Arabia’s labor market and digital economy. Women are increasingly founding startups, developing digital products and using technologies such as AI, fintech and cloud services to build businesses across sectors.
The source also points to initiatives supporting this pipeline, including training programs, incubators, accelerators and entrepreneurship support from Monsha’at. Its Future Entrepreneur initiative targets school students, offering educational content and practical activities focused on innovation, product development and problem-solving.
As Saudi Arabia invests in digital infrastructure and future skills, women are becoming more active not only as participants in the technology ecosystem, but also as founders, investors, specialists and leaders shaping its direction.
Source: Al Riyadh
