Saudi tech conference LEAP East debuts in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre is celebrating the conclusion of LEAP East 2026, the historic Asian debut of Saudi Arabia's premier technology conference brand, LEAP.

Set over three days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the inaugural event utilised over 35,000 square meters of space across Hall 1 and Hall 3. Positioned right on the Victoria Harbour waterfront, the landmark summit served as a global bridge, bringing 300 startups and 600 investors—collectively representing more than £4.8 trillion in assets under management—under one roof. The summit attracted over 25,000 professionals, policymakers, and investors.

Monica Lee-Müller, managing director of HML, said: "The resounding success of LEAP East perfectly demonstrates Hong Kong's strategic role as a 'super-connector' and 'super value-adder' bridging economies, innovation, capital, and cultures.

“We are deeply grateful for the close collaboration between governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which made this milestone possible. This year, HML has welcomed major Asian debuts or city's first-ever events with tremendous success.

“These events have shown a strong desire to return to the HKCEC next year with larger floor space, bigger crowds, and even bolder ideas—and I am absolutely delighted that LEAP East is among them."

Lee-Müller added: "In support of Hong Kong's strategic development plans, HML will continue to position the HKCEC as a leading platform where diverse industries can demonstrate latest achievements, exchange insights and unlock new opportunities.

“Through our world-class facilities and professional services, the HKCEC plays a pivotal role in reinforcing Hong Kong's position as the premier Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions (MICE) hub in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The venue also serves as a gateway for enterprises from the Chinese Mainland to connect with international partners and engage with global business community.

“Simultaneously, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for visitors of all cultures. Our proactive efforts to introduce Muslim-friendly facilities and services have earned the HKCEC the distinction of being the first venue accredited as a gold-standard Muslim-friendly MICE venue, contributing to the success of LEAP East."

Annabelle Mander, executive vice president of Tahaluf and co-creator of LEAP, said: "LEAP East is far more than just an event; it is a bridge to the wider technology ecosystem. We see immense synergies between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong, particularly in their shared ambitions and thriving technology hubs across AI, FinTech, and beyond.

“Hong Kong was the natural choice to launch a brand like LEAP, and the HKCEC has proven to be the ideal venue to foster collaboration and innovation. From outstanding halal dining options for our Saudi visitors to dedicated bilateral meeting rooms and prayer facilities, the venue provides everything I could want as both a host and an attendee. It has been perfect for us."

LEAP East will be hosted in Hong Kong for a further three years.