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Saudi Arabia has announced approximately $2.5 billion in technology investments and new initiatives on the second day of LEAP 2026, with data centre development accounting for the largest share as the Kingdom expands its digital infrastructure to meet rising demand for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.
The announcements cover data centres, cloud computing, technology localisation and research and development. Among the largest commitments are a $1.2 billion expansion by Al Moammar Information Systems (MIS) and an $880 million data centre project by NHC Innovation.
MIS Commits $1.2 Billion to Data Centre Expansion
Al Moammar Information Systems (MIS) announced a $1.2 billion investment to expand its data centre operations across Saudi Arabia.
The expansion is expected to increase MIS’s total operational capacity to 192 megawatts, positioning the company to serve growing demand for computing infrastructure and AI-related services.
The investment reflects the increasing importance of data centre capacity as Saudi Arabia accelerates the development of its digital economy and seeks to establish itself as a regional technology hub.
NHC Innovation also announced plans to invest $880 million in data centre infrastructure at Khuzam Digital Valley.
The project is expected to provide integrated digital infrastructure with scalable capacity, reaching 65 megawatts by 2033.
Combined, the MIS and NHC Innovation projects represent more than $2 billion in planned investment in Saudi Arabia’s data centre infrastructure.
Mobily and BytePlus Expand Cloud Infrastructure
Cloud computing was another major focus of the second day’s announcements.
Mobily and BytePlus announced a joint investment of more than $150 million to introduce BytePlus cloud services in Saudi Arabia.
The initiative is aimed at expanding access to advanced cloud infrastructure and services for businesses and enterprises operating in the Kingdom.
The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia continues to encourage investment in cloud computing, data infrastructure and other technologies considered important to the country’s digital transformation strategy.
HPE and Intel Establish Saudi Innovation Centre
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) announced an expansion of its Saudi Made programme, broadening its focus from hardware localisation to integrated technology solutions.
HPE also announced the establishment of the Saudi Innovation Centre in partnership with Intel. The centre will support startups and Saudi talent developing technologies in areas including artificial intelligence.
The initiative adds to efforts to develop local technology capabilities while creating opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs and emerging companies to participate in the Kingdom’s expanding AI ecosystem.
Nokia Opens Saudi Research and Development Centre
Nokia announced plans to open its first research and development centre in Saudi Arabia.
The facility will focus on AI-powered network automation, telecommunications technologies and research aimed at advancing next-generation network capabilities.
The centre is also expected to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s efforts to develop local research and innovation capabilities in advanced communications and artificial intelligence.
Saudi Investment Extends to Africa’s Digital Infrastructure
Saudi technology investment is also expanding beyond the domestic market.
Vision Invest and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) announced a strategic investment in WIOCC, supporting the company’s plans to expand digital infrastructure and connectivity across Africa.
The investment is expected to contribute to the development of digital networks and services across African markets, reflecting a broader push by Saudi investors into international infrastructure and technology opportunities.
The move comes alongside continued investment within Saudi Arabia in areas such as data centres, cloud computing, research and development and technology localisation.
LEAP 2026 Continues in Riyadh
LEAP 2026 is continuing through September 3 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham.
The technology event has brought together investors, technology companies, startups and industry leaders from Saudi Arabia and international markets. Its programme covers artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital infrastructure and other emerging technologies.
The second day’s announcements underscore the scale of investment being directed toward the infrastructure needed to support Saudi Arabia’s expanding technology sector.
With billions of dollars committed to data centres, cloud services, research and development and digital connectivity, the latest deals highlight the growing role of technology infrastructure in the Kingdom’s broader economic transformation.
