Where is DeepFest 2026 being held?

DeepFest 2026 takes place at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center (RECC), Malham, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

How do I register for DeepFest 2026?

You can register online via the official registration link: https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/3h239cufmkjme. Registration desks for badge printing are also available on-site at the parking area facing Hall 1 and at the main entrance of Hall 2

Is DeepFest 2026 co-located with another event?

Yes, DeepFest 2026 is co-located with LEAP 2026, the world's most-attended tech event, taking place on the same dates and at the same venue

Who organizes DeepFest?

DeepFest is organized by Tahaluf, a joint venture between Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and the Events Investment Fund (EIF). The event is powered by the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) and supported by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology

Are there shuttle services to the venue?

Yes, a dedicated shuttle bus operates between SAB Metro Station and the venue throughout the event. From SAB Metro Station to the venue, shuttles run from 12:00 PM to 5:30 pm. every 15 minutes. Return shuttles operate from 2:00 PM to 10:00 pm. every 30 minutes

DeepFest Artificial Inteligence

Name: DeepFest Artificial Inteligence
Start: 2026-08-31
End: 2026-09-03
Location: Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center

Event overview

Overview

DeepFest 2026 explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world from enterprise systems and national infrastructure to creativity and human experience.

The program brings together global leaders to examine the rise of agentic AI, the transformation of enterprise operating models, and the governance frameworks required to build trusted intelligent systems.

Sessions then dive into real-world deployment, showcasing how AI is revolutionizing healthcare, robotics, infrastructure, and industrial operations while unlocking new scientific and economic possibilities

TL;DR

1DeepFest 2026 takes place 31 August – 3 September 2026 at RECC, Malham, Riyadh
2The event gathers 68,000+ attendees, 180+ speakers, and 120+ global AI brands
3Focus areas include AI governance, ethics, sustainability, security, robotics, generative AI, machine learning, automation
4Confirmed speakers include Michio Kaku, Andrew Feldman, Joe Atkinson, Luc Dammann, Chandra Donelson, Daniel
5DeepFest is held during Saudi Arabia's officially designated 'Year of Artificial Intelligence'- 1

Why visit

DeepFest 2026 offers a unique opportunity to connect with a global AI community of over 68,000 attendees, including engineers, researchers You can explore 120+ AI companies on the exhibition floor, from early-stage startups to global players , and learn The event features live demos, AI-driven VR/AR experiences, and insights into national AI strategies Whether you're building, researching, or deploying AI, DeepFest provides actionable ideas and meaningful connections

Why exhibit

Exhibiting at DeepFest 2026 provides direct access to a targeted audience of 68,000+ procurement-ready AI buyers, with 35% of attendees The event is designed for AI companies, ensuring you engage with decision-makers specifically interested in AI solutions, maximizing ROI through You'll gain visibility in a hall themed for AI-led navigation, located alongside keynote stages and experience zones Past exhibitors have reported closing enterprise deals that paid for their participation DeepFest offers packages that include positioning, branding, and strategy, not just square meters

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

AI researchers and data scientists

Technology founders and startup entrepreneurs

AI engineers and product leads

Policymakers and government officials

Enterprise leaders and C-suite executives

Investors and venture capitalists

Sector-specific buyers from government, healthcare, finance, retail, and infrastructure

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Global AI technology brands

Cloud and compute infrastructure leaders (e.g., Google Cloud, AMD, Cerebras, Supermicro)

Enterprise software and consulting giants (e.g., Salesforce, EY, Xerox)

AI-first startups and scale-ups

Robotics and automation companies

Generative AI and machine learning solution providers

Companies offering AI governance, ethics, and security solutions

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

AI Core Technologies: AI chips/components (CPU, GPU, FPGA, TPU, BPU), machine learning, natural language processing, deep learning, inference and learning functions, image and video recognition, AI computing, AI solutions, AI platforms

AI Applications & Services: smart data, healthcare, financial services, security, AI virtual assistants, predictive maintenance, AI consulting, AI marketing & advertising, AI education systems

AI Telecommunications & Mobility: service platforms (smart retail), smart infrastructure

AI IoT & Manufacturing: smart factories, industrial IoT, manufacturing, distribution, retail

AI Smart Cities & IoT: autonomous driving, smart city solutions

AI & Robotics: AI service robots, agricultural robots, security robots, disaster response robots, medical robots, specialty robots

Generative AI

Customer Experience AI

Automation

Large Learning Models / Large Language Models

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

Hall 1Hall 2Hall 3Hall 1AHall 4Hall 5

Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center

Riyadh-Qassim Road, Malham 13571, 13571 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Entrances & gates

Falcon Gate

Main visitor parking

Main visitor entrance via Al-Qassim Road

Hall 1 Entrance

Hall 1

Registration tents for badge printing are located at the parking area facing Hall 1

Hall 2 Entrance

Hall 2

Main registration desks for badge printing are located at the Hall 2 entrance

Facilities

Food options

On-site Restaurants

On-site dining

Parking: Over 7,500 parking spaces are available on-site- . CP1 parking operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 pm. during build-up . Golf carts assist from parking entrances to the venue from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Gate: Visitors access the venue via Al-Qassim Road through the Falcon Gate- . During show days, exhibitor entry and exit is restricted to Thumama Road between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM

Attend

Entry & tickets

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Visitor access:12:00 PM – 9:00 PM daily from 31 August to 3 September 2026

Exhibitor access:9:00 AM – 9:30 PM daily

General Pass (Free)
Free General Pass available
Exhibition 4-Day Ticket
Price listed on third-party ticketing platforms; may include booking fee
RMB 300.00

Ticket info

Badge collection

Registration desks for badge printing are located in the registration tents at the parking area facing Hall 1, as well as at the main entrance of Hall 2 . Visitors with a digital badge can enter directly through any gate at Halls 1 and 2

Ticket notes

A free General Pass is available . Paid passes (Priority, VIP, Founder, Investor) offer early access from 10:00 AM and additional benefits . Ticket prices vary; a 4-day exhibition ticket is listed at 300 RMB (approx. 188 SAR) on some platforms

Build-up & tear-down

Setup starts31 Aug 2026

Setup ends3 Sep 2026

Who runs the show

Organisers

Customer Success Team

General Enquiries

Email Call Website

Visa Enquiries

Visa Support

Call Website

DeepFest Team

General Enquiries

Email Website

What's on

Programme

Keynote

Opening

TBA

Event days

14:00–18:20

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Michio Kaku

Professor of Theoretical Physics @ City College of New York

Theoretical Physics, AI

Chandra Donelson

Global Award-Winning Data and AI Strategist, Bestselling Author and 3× CDAO

Data & AI Strategy

Daniel Bedingfield

Singer, Songwriter, and Record Producer @ Blow Up Music

AI in Music & Creativity

Dr. Jack McCauley

Innovator in Residence and Board Trustee, former Co-Founder and Engineer of Oculus VR @ UC Berkeley

VR, AI, Innovation

Luc Dammann

President of EMEA @ Adobe

Enterprise AI, Digital Transformation

Sultan Moraished

Group Head of Technology & Corporate Excellence @ Red Sea Global

AI in Business, Technology Leadership

Isabelle Kumar

Former Anchor @ Euro News

AI, Media, Communications

Sabya Sen

VP, APAC/MEA @ Alteryx

Enterprise AI, AI Adoption

Larissa Abi Nakhle

IEEE Global Entrepreneurship VP of External Partnerships and IEEE Computer Society Lebanon Vice President @ IEEE

AI Education, Human Capital

Dr. Ali Abusnina

Manager, Future AI Technologies @ Saudi Aramco

AI in Energy, Industrial AI

Joe Atkinson

Global Chief AI Officer @ PwC

Enterprise AI, AI Strategy

Gert Jan Van Halem

AI as a Business Enabler

Hugo Riley

Generative Creativity, AI in Music & Art

Isa Mutlib

CoTalent AI

Future of Learning & Work, AI Thought Leadership

Misbah Uraizee

Cofounder & CEO @ Nectar Social

AI Entrepreneurship

Laurie Fuller

Business Mentor, Google for Startups Partner @ Raiven Capital

AI Startups, Mentorship

Faisal Saeed

Associate Professor @ Birmingham City University, UK

Computer Science, AI Research

Janna Saloangas

Co-Founder & CEO @ MIA AI

AI, Entrepreneurship

Will Badr

VP of Product Engineering @ Oracle

AI Product Engineering

Anton Dzhoraev

Director, CIS Region @ NVIDIA

AI Infrastructure, GPU Computing

Susannah Streeter

Journalist and Former BBC News Anchor

AI, Media, Communications

Grace Adamson

AI Senior Product Marketing Manager @ Snowflake

AI Product Marketing, Data Cloud

Faisal Saeed

Associate Professor @ Birmingham City University, UK

Computer Science, AI Research

Anil Cheriyan

Founder

Enterprise AI Risk Management

Ray Pang

Senior Vice President of Technology and Business Enablement, General Manager for Middle East @ Supermicro

AI Infrastructure, Business Enablement

Atul Gupta, MD

Global Chief Medical Officer for Diagnosis and Treatment @ Philips

AI in Healthcare, Health Technology

Dinakar Munagala

Co-founder and CEO @ Blaize

AI Infrastructure, Edge AI

Steve Nouri

Data Science Leader

Data Science, AI Leadership

Rabi Atiti

Head of Inclusion – EMEA & India / Talent & Inclusion @ Informa

Inclusion, Talent, AI Workforce

Franklin Urteaga

Former White House Technology Advisor

AI Policy, Technology Leadership

Julie Teigland

EY Global Vice Chair – Alliances & Ecosystems @ EY

AI Alliances, Ecosystems

Marco Casalaina

Generative AI

Dr. Tanja Kuzman

AI Investment, Capital

Maha Achour

Generative AI, Robotics

14:00 – 14:10

MC Welcome – Opening Remarks

Opening

Main StageHall 5

14:20 – 14:40

Operationalising Enterprise Intelligence: Moving from AI Ambition to Trusted Action

Session

Main StageHall 5

14:40 – 15:00

The Future of Intelligence and Enterprise AI

Panel

Main StageHall 5

15:15 – 15:35

Generative Creativity How AI is Changing Music, Art, and Storytelling

Session

Main StageHall 5

15:55 – 16:35

The Future of Learning & Work

Session

Main StageHall 5

16:40 – 17:00

AI as a Business Enabler, from Envisioning to Execution

Session

Main StageHall 5

17:30 – 17:50

Beyond the Degree: Building the Human Capital for an AI-First Economy

Session

Main StageHall 5

17:40 – 18:00

AI Darwinism: Who Will Survive the Intelligence Shift?

Keynote

Main StageHall 5

18:00 – 18:20

Keynote

Main StageHall 5

Topic tracks

Day 1: the Intelligence Era – Strategy & Enterprise TransformationDay 2: Responsibility & Global Coordination – Governance & Sovereign AIDay 3: Real-World Impact – Industry Deployment & InnovationDay 4: the Human Side of AI – Creativity, Learning & CollaborationMain Stage – AI, Robotics, Ethics & Sustainability

Co-located events

LEAP 2026

Separate ticket

Government supporters

Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA)

Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)

Government Supporter

Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP)

Government Supporter

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 68,000 visitors · 120 exhibitors

Projected figures as per DeepFest 2026 official website: 68,000+ visitors, 180+ speakers, 120+ global brands

Forecast — not final

Visitors

50,000

Exhibitors

120

Growth over time

New this edition

1
DeepMedia Stage
A dedicated stage exploring the transformative impact of AI on the media industry, from content creation to distribution
Source
2
Expanded Speaker Lineup
DeepFest 2026 features 180+ speakers, an increase from 150 in previous editions
Source
3
Year of Artificial Intelligence
DeepFest 2026 is held during Saudi Arabia's officially designated 'Year of Artificial Intelligence', adding national significance and high-level government participation
Source

Testimonials

I'm completely puzzled by the organisation of LEAP and DeepFest because it's so dynamic and there are so many people that speak of the latest technologies. It's incredible
Prof. Dr. Gesa Ziemer · Academic Lead, UNITAC (UN Innovation Technology Accelerator or Cities) UN Habitat, OICT, United Nations; Head of the CityScience Lab · HafenCity University Hamburg · 2025

I've been so impressed with DeepFest, not only do you have the best data scientists and AI experts that are attending DeepFest, but you have a lot of key business leaders and executives that want to come and learn more. There's so much buzz going around, I've never seen this much energy at an AI conference
Nadia Thalmann · Founder and Director · MIRAlab · 2025

What I really like about DeepFest, is the exposure to all of the solutions that we are seeing with AI. And then again, making those connections with people from around the world, hearing their ideas and exchanging potential solutions
Ricky Ray Butler · CEO · Benlabs · 2025

DeepFest has grown tremendously, it is well designed, there are great networking sessions where you can meet a lot of new people
Dr. Simon See · Global Head, NVIDIA AI Technology Centre · NVIDIA · 2025

DeepFest has always been about bringing together the people building what's next in AI, not just talking about it. This year's programme is focused on real-world application
Basma Dawwas · Director of LEAP Events · Tahaluf · 2026

Next edition outlook

Medium

DeepFest is an annual event organized by Tahaluf and powered by SDAIA. Based on the rapid growth and increasing international momentum, DeepFest 2027 is expected to continue expanding its global footprint, potentially attracting even more international tech giants, investors, and policymakers. The event will likely build on the themes of AI governance, sovereign infrastructure, and real-world deployment, further solidifying Saudi Arabia's position as a global AI hub

Potential expansion of the DeepMedia stage and other specialized tracks Increased participation from global AI infrastructure and enterprise software leaders Greater emphasis on AI governance, ethics, and sustainability Further integration with LEAP, potentially attracting even larger crowds and more investors

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

Over its first three editions, DeepFest has grown from 20,000 attendees in 2023 to over 50,000 expected in 2025, establishing itself as the premier AI event in the Middle East and a key platform for Saudi Arabia's AI ambitions Co-located with LEAP, DeepFest has served as a primary conduit connecting Saudi Arabia's domestic tech agenda with the global AI and tech investment ecosystem. The event has showcased government AI initiatives and the latest innovations across multiple sectors, attracting global tech leaders and fostering international collaboration

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

DeepFest attracts a high-quality audience of AI researchers, founders, engineers, policymakers, product leads, and C-suite executives from around the world. The event is co-located with LEAP, which in 2024 welcomed 172,000+ attendees from 183 countries, providing exhibitors with access to a broader tech ecosystem. Attendees include key decision-makers driving AI adoption across Saudi Arabia and the region

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors at DeepFest gain direct access to a targeted audience of AI buyers and decision-makers, with the event consistently growing in scale and influence. Co-location with LEAP amplifies ROI by connecting exhibitors with a massive global tech audience. Past editions have seen on-event investment deals totaling more than $9 billion at the broader LEAP event

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Middle East – Saudi Arabia, with a specific focus on Riyadh as the hub of the Kingdom's AI strategy under Vision 2030 and the official 'Year of Artificial Intelligence' 2026

Why it matters

DeepFest 2026 matters because it serves as the principal platform connecting Saudi Arabia's national AI agenda with the global AI ecosystem. It is a critical meeting ground for the 'global builders and global deployers' to accelerate collaboration and real-world AI progress. As AI transitions from experimentation to core infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global exporter of AI capability, with the energy, infrastructure, and sovereign architecture to lead Co-located with LEAP 2026, which is expected to attract over 201,000 visitors, 600 startups, and 1,900 investors, DeepFest offers unmatched access to decision-makers, buyers, and partners in one of the world's fastest-growing AI markets

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

From Generative AI Hype to Enterprise-Grade Deployment

The AI narrative has shifted decisively from experimental novelties to practical implementation. The focus is now on scalable infrastructure, rigorous governance, and enterprise readiness. DeepFest 2026 reflects this pivot, concentrating on real-world application across healthcare, robotics, infrastructure, and manufacturing

Source

Sovereign AI and National Infrastructure as a Competitive Advantage

Nations are prioritising sovereign AI capabilities. Saudi Arabia's designation of 2026 as the 'Year of AI' and its investment in national data and AI governance through SDAIA exemplify this. Discussions at DeepFest 2026 centre on sovereign infrastructure, autonomous systems, and ethical frameworks

Source

Convergence of Global Tech Giants in the Gulf AI Ecosystem

Major global technology companies are making a significant push into the Gulf region. First-time exhibitors and sponsors at DeepFest 2026 include Google Cloud, AMD, Cerebras, Supermicro, Blaize, Salesforce, EY, and Xerox. This influx signals the rapid maturation of the region's AI ecosystem

Source

AI as a Core Pillar of Economic Diversification

In the GCC, AI is an economic lever, not a side initiative. Governments are using AI to diversify economies, build smart infrastructure, attract global capital, and develop local talent. The Saudi AI market is forecast to grow rapidly through to 2030, driven by public-sector demand and enterprise adoption

Source

Live Demos and Immersive AI Experiences

Events are moving beyond presentations to offer hands-on, live demonstrations. DeepFest 2026 features real-time deepfake detection, AI-generated music performances, and AI-driven VR/AR encounters, allowing attendees to experience the technology firsthand

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Saudi Arabia's 'Year of AI' Takes Center Stage at DeepFest 2026 as Global Tech Giants Converge on Riyadh

Read

DeepFest Returns to Riyadh as Saudi Arabia Marks 2026 the Year of Artificial Intelligence

Read

DeepFest 2026 will return to LEAP and you can register now

Read

Key AI and Technology Events in the Middle East and Beyond (2026)

March–December 2026

The 2026 calendar features a dense cluster of AI events in the Gulf region, with DeepFest positioned as the flagship AI track of LEAP, the world's most-attended tech event. Other notable events include GITEX AI Middle East, the Saudi AI Summit, the Global AI Show Riyadh, and World AI Expo Dubai, creating a vibrant circuit for AI professionals, investors, and enterprises

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

GITEX AI Middle East 2026

Dubai, UAE

Dedicated Middle East edition of GITEX AI

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

Saudi AI Summit 2026

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Annual summit on national AI strategy milestones

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

Global AI Show Riyadh 2026

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Premier AI conference and exhibition exploring investment and partnership potential across the GCC

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

World AI Expo Dubai 2026

Dubai, UAE

Largest global AI conference and innovation hub in Dubai

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

DeepFest 2026

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Region's most influential AI event, co-located with LEAP. 68,000+ attendees, 120+ AI companies, 180+ speakers

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

LEAP 2026

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

World's most-attended tech event. Over 170,000 attendees expected

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

Gulf AI Governance Summit 2026

Doha, Qatar

Focus on policy, ethics, and governance

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

GITEX Global 2026

Dubai, UAE

Hosted in Dubai, features major AI and smart-city announcements

website

31 Aug – 3 Sep 2026

World Summit AI Qatar 2026

Doha, Qatar

Global AI ecosystem event with enterprise, big tech, startups, investors, scientists, and academics

website

May – July 2026 (Pre-DeepFest)

GITEX AI Middle East 2026Saudi AI Summit 2026Global AI Show Riyadh 2026World AI Expo Dubai 2026

A series of AI events leading up to DeepFest, offering opportunities for networking, learning, and market validation

August – September 2026 (Peak Season)

DeepFest 2026LEAP 2026

The pinnacle of the AI event calendar in the region. DeepFest is the dedicated AI track within LEAP, the world's most-attended tech event

October – December 2026 (Post-DeepFest)

GITEX Global 2026Gulf AI Governance Summit 2026World Summit AI Qatar 2026

Continued AI and tech events, with GITEX Global providing another major platform in Dubai

Event data sourced from AI in Arabia (aiinarabia.com), a comprehensive directory of AI events in the Arab world

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · SAR

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

RUH

King Khalid International Airport

The nearest major international airport. From RUH, take Metro Line 4 (Yellow) into the city, then transfer to Line 2 (Red) to 'Riyadh Exhibition Center' station (total ~1 hour)- . Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals are also available

Approximately 30 km

to venue

15–30 minutes via Airport Road/King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Rd

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Luxury

City Center / Diplomatic Quarter / Olaya District

USD 250–500 / night

High-end hotels like Four Seasons, Fairmont, and Hilton offer premium amenities and are well-located for business travelers

Mid-range

North Riyadh / near RECC

USD 120–240 / night

Branded business hotels such as Radisson Blu, Crowne Plaza, and Novotel provide convenient access and good value

Budget

Riyadh suburbs / along metro lines

USD 60–110 / night

Economy hotels and serviced apartments like Al Muhaidb Residence offer basic amenities with metro access to the venue

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Riyadh Metro

Estimated costSAR 10–20 (approx. USD 3–5)

Best forLine 2 (Red Line) to 'Riyadh Exhibition Center' station; from King Khalid International Airport, take Line 4 (Yellow) to the city centre and transfer to Line 2 (Red)

Modern, air-conditioned metro system. Shuttle buses connect SAB Metro Station to the venue

Event Shuttle Bus

Estimated costFree for registered attendees

Best forSAB Metro Station ↔ LEAP/DeepFest venue

Operates all four days: from metro to venue 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM (every 15 min); return 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM (every 30 min). Pick-up and drop-off points are clearly signposted

Exhibitor Shuttle Bus

Estimated costFree for exhibitors with valid VAPP

Best forDesignated routes within the venue (entry/exit via Thumama Road)

Operates during show days (31 Aug–3 Sep) from 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM. A valid Vehicle Access & Parking Permit (VAPP) is required, obtainable during build-up (25–30 Aug) at the Organiser Office (Hall 2). Bus station operates as a drop-off/pick-up point only

Taxi / Ride-hailing (Uber, Careem, Bolt)

Estimated costSAR 80–150 (USD 21–40) from airport; SAR 40–80 (USD 11–21) from city centre

Best forFrom airport or city to RECC

Widely available. Use official apps for transparent pricing

Car Rental

Estimated costSAR 150–400 (USD 40–107) per day

Best forAvailable at King Khalid International Airport and city locations

Parking available at RECC with 7,500+ spaces. GPS navigation recommended

Private Car / Self-drive

Estimated costParking: free (over 2,000 spaces)

Best forVenue is on King Abdullah Road, accessible via Al-Qassim Road through Falcon Gate (visitor parking) or Thumama Road (exhibitor access)

Visitor parking via Falcon Gate. Private cars are not permitted on Thumama Road during build-up or show days

Golf Cart

Estimated costFree

Best forFrom parking entrances to venue

Available from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM to assist with transport from parking areas

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

On-arrival available

ATA Carnet: check with organiser

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Tourist e-Visa	Citizens of most countries not eligible for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival; available to nationals of 49+ eligible countries	$107.00	24–72 hours
Visa-on-Arrival	Citizens of select countries (e.g., US, UK, EU, Japan, China) and those with valid UK, US, or Schengen visa	$107.00	On arrival at airport
Business Visa	Exhibitors, speakers, and business delegates requiring formal invitation	$100.00	3–5 working days

GCC citizens (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman) do not require a visa. Citizens of several other countries may be eligible for visa-on-arrival or e-Visa. Check eligibility on the official portal

Saudi Arabia is not a member of the ATA Carnet system. Exhibitors should arrange temporary importation of goods through a licensed customs broker

Official visa page

Weather

Riyadh in late August to early September is extremely hot. Average high temperatures exceed 44°C (111°F) with lows around 30°C (86°F) - . Humidity is low- . All indoor areas are air-conditioned. Carry water, wear light clothing, and use sunscreen when outdoors

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue- . Mobile networks (STC, Mobily, Zain) provide good 5G coverage. International roaming is supported; local e-SIMs can be purchased at the airport

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Dress Code

Saudi Arabia has a conservative dress code. While international visitors are not required to wear traditional attire, modest clothing is recommended. For men, long trousers and shirts are appropriate- . For women, loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is advised. An abaya (a loose-fitting cloak) is not mandatory for foreign women but is often worn as a sign of respect

Prayer Times

Prayer times are observed five times daily in Saudi Arabia. During prayer times, many businesses and public spaces may close briefly- . The venue will accommodate prayer facilities. Visitors should be mindful of these times and plan their schedules accordingly

Local Customs and Etiquette

Saudi Arabia is a conservative country with strong Islamic traditions. Public displays of affection are not appropriate. Alcohol is strictly prohibited- . It is important to respect local customs and traditions. Greetings are often warm and may involve handshakes, but it is best to wait for a local to initiate physical contact

Language

Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in business and hospitality settings, especially in Riyadh. Most event signage and communications will be available in both Arabic and English

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: King Khalid International Airport (RUH)

Book flights well in advance as DeepFest is co-located with LEAP, a major global tech event, attracting significant international attendance

Book flights

Visa

Most international visitors require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Tourist e-Visa and Visa-on-Arrival are available for eligible nationalities. Business visitors and exhibitors should obtain a Business Visa with an invitation letter from the event organiser

Processing: e-Visa: 24–72 hours; Visa-on-Arrival: on arrival

Visa fees include mandatory health insurance. Passport must be valid for at least six months from entry. Visitors with a digital badge can enter directly through any gate at Halls 1 and 2

Official Partner

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Check-in (recommended)

2026-08-31

Check-out (recommended)

2026-09-03

Areas to stay

Near Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center (RECC) · King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) · Olaya District · North Riyadh

Luxury

$250 – $500 per night

Mid-range

$120 – $240 per night

Budget

$60 – $110 per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: From King Khalid International Airport (RUH), take the Riyadh Metro Line 4 (Yellow) to the city center, then transfer to Line 2 (Red) to 'Riyadh Exhibition Center' station (total ~1 hour). Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available

Hotel → venue: Use the Riyadh Metro (Line 2 – Red Line to 'Riyadh Exhibition Center' station), taxis, or ride-hailing apps. A dedicated shuttle bus also operates between SAB Metro Station and the venue during event days

Ride-hail: Uber, Careem, and Bolt are widely available. Estimated cost from the airport: SAR 80–150 (USD 21–40); from the city center: SAR 40–80 (USD 11–21)

Public transit: Riyadh Metro Line 2 (Red Line) stops at 'Riyadh Exhibition Center' station. A free event shuttle connects SAB Metro Station to the venue

Parking: Over 7,500 parking spaces are available on-site. CP1 parking operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 pm. during build-up

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: August-September

Temperature: High: 44°C (111°F), Low: 30°C (86°F)

Seasonality: Virtually no rainfall; extremely dry

Packing: Pack light, breathable clothing for outdoor heat, but also bring a light jacket or sweater for air-conditioned indoor spaces. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

09:00 AMExhibitor access begins; set up booth / attend morning meetings
10:00 AMPriority/VIP/Founder/Investor pass holders gain early access
12:00 PMGeneral visitor access opens. Attend keynote sessions
01:00 PMLunch break at venue food courts or Riyadh Front
02:00 PMSector-specific tracks and technical sessions
04:00 PMNetworking reception / startup pitch sessions
06:00 PMLive demos and AI experience zones
07:30 PMDinner and informal networking at Riyadh Front
09:00 PMVenue closes for visitors

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Day 3 (2 September 2026)

Day 3 focuses on 'Real-World Impact – Industry Deployment & Innovation', showcasing practical AI applications across healthcare, robotics, and infrastructure. This day offers the most actionable insights for enterprise buyers and decision-makers

3–6 months before

Define participation goals and budget — Align objectives (lead generation, brand awareness, partnerships) with booth size and staffing

2–3 months before

Book stand space and confirm contract — Contact DeepFest team via the official website to secure a booth; pricing varies by size and location

6–8 weeks before

Design booth and order materials — Work with an approved contractor or use the organiser's shell scheme options

4–6 weeks before

Arrange freight shipping and customs clearance — Saudi Arabia does not accept ATA Carnets; use a licensed customs broker

3–4 weeks before

2–3 weeks before

Schedule meetings with key prospects and partners — Leverage the event app or organiser tools to pre-book meetings

1 week before

Confirm travel, accommodation, and local transport — Book hotels near the venue or along the metro line; arrange airport transfers

Build-up (19–30 August 2026)

Set up booth and conduct final checks — Access hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Obtain Vehicle Access & Parking Permit (VAPP) from Organiser Office (Hall 2)

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

09:00 AM

Exhibitor access begins; set up booth / attend morning meetings

Exhibition halls

10:00 AM

Priority/VIP/Founder/Investor pass holders gain early access

Exhibition floor

12:00 PM

General visitor access opens. Attend keynote sessions

Hall 5 / Main Stage

01:00 PM

Lunch break at venue food courts or Riyadh Front

On-site dining / Riyadh Front

02:00 PM

Sector-specific tracks and technical sessions

Various halls and meeting rooms

04:00 PM

Networking reception / startup pitch sessions

Exhibition floor / dedicated lounges

06:00 PM

Live demos and AI experience zones

Hall 3 / Demo areas

07:30 PM

Dinner and informal networking at Riyadh Front

Riyadh Front

09:00 PM

Venue closes for visitors

Exhibition halls

Side trips

Riyadh Front

Shopping & Dining

Adjacent to RECC

A modern lifestyle destination with international brands, restaurants, and cafes. Ideal for networking dinners or post-event relaxation

King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)

Business & Architecture

15-minute drive

Iconic financial hub with striking skyscrapers, public art, and upscale dining. A symbol of Saudi Arabia's economic transformation

National Museum of Saudi Arabia

Cultural

20-minute drive

Explore Saudi Arabia's rich history, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Located in the King Abdulaziz Historical Center

Al Masmak Fortress

Historical

25-minute drive

A 19th-century clay and mud-brick fort that played a key role in the unification of Saudi Arabia. Offers a glimpse into the country's heritage

Kingdom Centre Tower

Observation Deck

30-minute drive

Riyadh's iconic skyscraper with a sky bridge offering panoramic views of the city

Networking spots

Main Stage Area

Networking Hub

Central gathering point before and after keynotes

Exhibition Floor Lounges

Informal Meeting Spots

Scattered throughout the halls for spontaneous conversations

Riyadh Front

Off-site Dining & Networking

Adjacent to the venue, ideal for evening networking dinners

Budget

Costs & budget

Exact booth pricing is not publicly disclosed. Interested exhibitors are directed to contact the DeepFest team directly via the official website to request a sales brochure and pricing package

source

Build your working budget

Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

Hotel tier

Budget$60.00/nightMid-range$150.00/nightPremium$350.00/night

Number of nights

Flight

Estimated budget

Live estimate

Hotel × 3 nights$180.00
Per diem × 3$150.00
Visa$80.00
Insurance$50.00
Flight — Economy (Round-trip from London)$600.00

Estimated total$1,060.00

This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

Cost reference

Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

Exhibition 4-Day Ticket

both · Standard

RMB 300 / ticket

official

Hotel (Budget)

both · Budget

USD 60–110 / per night

estimate

Hotel (Mid-range)

both · Mid-range

USD 120–240 / per night

estimate

Hotel (Luxury)

both · Luxury

USD 250–500 / per night

estimate

Visa (Tourist e-Visa)

both · Standard

USD 107 / per person

official

Visa (Business Visa)

both · Standard

USD 100 / per person

estimate

Item	For	Tier	Estimated range	Status
Exhibition 4-Day Ticket	both	Standard	RMB 300 / ticket	official
Hotel (Budget)	both	Budget	USD 60–110 / per night	estimate
Hotel (Mid-range)	both	Mid-range	USD 120–240 / per night	estimate
Hotel (Luxury)	both	Luxury	USD 250–500 / per night	estimate
Visa (Tourist e-Visa)	both	Standard	USD 107 / per person	official
Visa (Business Visa)	both	Standard	USD 100 / per person	estimate

Decision

Visit, exhibit, or skip?

Should you go?

Answer these 8 questions to get a personalised recommendation on whether you should visit, exhibit, or skip DeepFest 2026. Your scores across three decision paths will determine the best fit

QUESTION 1 OF 8

What is your primary goal for participating in a trade show like DeepFest?

Decision matrix

Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

visit

You are new to the Saudi market, want to validate the event's ROI before committing to exhibiting, or have a modest learning/networking objective

Best for

Professionals seeking to learn about AI trends, network with peers, and scout potential partners or vendors without the expense and commitment of exhibiting

Min. budget

$500.00

Timeline

1–2 weeks to plan travel and register for a free or paid pass

Risks

Limited access to private exhibitor networking areas

Fewer scheduled one‑on‑one meetings with top speakers

May miss the depth of technical discussions available only to exhibitors

exhibit

You have a confirmed product launch or major announcement, strong existing ties to Saudi partners, and sufficient internal resources to follow up on leads post‑event

Best for

Companies with a clear AI product or service, a budget of at least $20,000, and a strong need to connect with enterprise buyers, decision‑makers, and partners in the Middle East

Min. budget

$20,000.00

Timeline

At least 3–4 months for booth design, staff training, pre‑show marketing, and logistics coordination

Risks

High upfront investment with no guarantee of lead volume

Intense competition for attendee attention (120+ exhibitors)

Event overlaps with LEAP, potentially spreading attendee focus

skip

You cannot commit to any expense, your product is not relevant to the regional market, or you have alternative channels that are more cost‑effective

Best for

Organisations with very limited budget, no regional presence, or who are in early R&D stages without a market‑ready offering

Timeline

N/A

Risks

Missing out on potential partnerships or competitive intelligence

Saudi Arabia's AI focus in 2026 may be a missed opportunity

Book with

Partners

ExpoMax

Logistics & Freight

ExpoMax provides freight and booth delivery coordination, shipping coordination, booth setup, and on-site support for exhibitors at DeepFest

Visit partner Confidence: Medium

Mentioned as a logistics service provider for DeepFest exhibitors

FAQs & glossary

Answers

Frequently asked

Glossary

Agentic AI: AI systems that can act autonomously to achieve goals, making decisions and taking actions without continuous human intervention
Sovereign AI: A nation's independent capability to develop, deploy, and govern artificial intelligence systems, encompassing infrastructure, data, and talent
Large Learning Models: Advanced AI models trained on vast datasets to understand, generate, and predict language, code, and other complex patterns

Trust footer

Sources

References

Publishers

Date checked

DeepFest

LEAP / Tahaluf

VisitCloud / Informa Markets

Metar-Taf

Weather in Riyadh Region 2022-2026

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Overview

Why visit

Why exhibit

Who this event is for

Venue

Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center

Facilities

Entry & tickets

Organisers

Programme

Speakers

Topic tracks

Co-located events

Sponsors

Government supporters

Previous edition

A bigger and stronger platform

High-value decision-makers

Real business growth

Market context

Industry trends

Market news

Key AI and Technology Events in the Middle East and Beyond (2026)

Travel & logistics

Arrival airports

Hotel tiers

Local transport

Visa & entry documents

Cultural notes

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Flights

Visa

Hotels

Transport

Weather

Itinerary builder

Planning

Sample visitor itinerary

Side trips

Networking spots

Costs & budget

Build your working budget

Cost reference

Visit, exhibit, or skip?

Should you go?

Decision matrix

Partners

Answers

What are the show timings for DeepFest 2026?

Where is DeepFest 2026 being held?

How do I register for DeepFest 2026?

Is DeepFest 2026 co-located with another event?

Who organizes DeepFest?

Are there shuttle services to the venue?

Sources

Digital business cards for the show floor

Exhibiting at this event?

Build your event team

Are you a delegate or visitor at this event?

Digital business cards for the show floor