Pro listing
DeepFest Artificial Inteligence
DeepFest 2026 is the Middle East's premier artificial intelligence and deep technology event, taking place from 31 August to 3 September 2026 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre (RECC) in Malham, Saudi Arabia
DeepFest 2026 is the Middle East's premier artificial intelligence and deep technology event, taking place from 31 August to 3 September 2026 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre (RECC) in Malham, Saudi Arabia
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
At a glance
- DeepFest 2026 takes place 31 August – 3 September 2026 at RECC, Malham, Riyadh
- The event gathers 68,000+ attendees, 180+ speakers, and 120+ global AI brands- 11
- Focus areas include AI governance, ethics, sustainability, security, robotics, generative AI, machine learning, automation
- Confirmed speakers include Michio Kaku, Andrew Feldman, Joe Atkinson, Luc Dammann, Chandra Donelson, Daniel
- DeepFest is held during Saudi Arabia's officially designated 'Year of Artificial Intelligence'- 1
Product categories
- 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- 1
- Customer Experience AI- 1
- Automation- 1
- Large Learning Models / Large Language Models- 1
Exhibitor profile
- Global AI technology brands- 1
- Cloud and compute infrastructure leaders (e.g., Google Cloud, AMD, Cerebras, Supermicro)- 1
- Enterprise software and consulting giants (e.g., Salesforce, EY, Xerox)- 1
- AI-first startups and scale-ups- 30
- Robotics and automation companies- 11
- Generative AI and machine learning solution providers- 11
- Companies offering AI governance, ethics, and security solutions- 11
Visitor profile
- AI researchers and data scientists- 11
- Technology founders and startup entrepreneurs- 11
- AI engineers and product leads- 11
- Policymakers and government officials- 11
- Enterprise leaders and C-suite executives- 34
- Investors and venture capitalists- 30
- Sector-specific buyers from government, healthcare, finance, retail, and infrastructure- 30
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- 30 Past exhibitors have reported closing enterprise deals that paid for their participation- 30 DeepFest offers packages that include positioning, branding, and strategy, not just square meters- 30
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- 11 , and learn The event features live demos, AI-driven VR/AR experiences, and insights into national AI strategies- 6 Whether you're building, researching, or deploying AI, DeepFest provides actionable ideas and meaningful connections- 11
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
Venue
name: Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center
- Hall 1
- Hall 2
- Hall 3
- Hall 1A
- Hall 4
- Hall 5
address
city: Riyadh
street: Riyadh-Qassim Road, Malham 13571
country: Saudi Arabia
postal code: 13571
- Falcon Gate
- Hall 1 Entrance
- Hall 2 Entrance
facilities
parking
notes: 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- 3
spaces: 7500
status: unknown
currency: SAR
- https://getaltd.co.uk/venues/riyadh-exhibition-and-convention-center-malham
- https://onegiantleap.com/visitor-resource-center
cloakroom
notes: Cloakroom services are not explicitly mentioned in available sources. Visitors should plan accordingly
status: unknown
- On-site Restaurants
prayer rooms
notes: Prayer rooms are available within the venue to accommodate the five daily prayer times
status: unknown
accessibility
notes: The venue is equipped with facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Golf carts are available to assist with transport from parking areas- 3
status: unknown
- https://onegiantleap.com/visitor-resource-center
onsite shuttle
notes: Golf carts are available at parking entrances to assist with transport to the venue from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM- 3
status: unknown
- https://onegiantleap.com/visitor-resource-center
charging points
notes: Charging points for electronic devices are not explicitly mentioned in available sources. Visitors should bring portable chargers
status: unknown
luggage storage
notes: Luggage storage services are not explicitly mentioned in available sources. Visitors should plan accordingly
status: unknown
gate notes: 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- 1
parking notes: Over 7,500 parking spaces are available on-site- . CP1 parking operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM during build-up- 1 . Golf carts assist from parking entrances to the venue from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM- 3
floor plan page url: https://deepfest.com/
floor plan schematic
official venue page url: https://deepfest.com/
Entry & registration
event 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- 1
ticket notes: A free General Pass is available- 3 . Paid passes (Priority, VIP, Founder, Investor) offer early access from 10:00 AM and additional benefits- 1 . Ticket prices vary; a 4-day exhibition ticket is listed at 300 RMB (approx. 188 SAR) on some platforms
setup end date: 2026
registration url: https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/3h239cufmkjme
setup start date: 2026
registration deadline: Advance registration is recommended; tickets are available online. Pricing phase runs until 23 August 2026, after which full pricing applies
badge collection notes: 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- 1 . Visitors with a digital badge can enter directly through any gate at Halls 1 and 2- 1
Organisers
- Customer Success Team
- Visa Enquiries
- DeepFest Team
Programme
- MC Welcome – Opening Remarks
- Keynote
- The Future of Intelligence and Enterprise AI
- AI Darwinism: Who Will Survive the Intelligence Shift?
- Operationalising Enterprise Intelligence: Moving from AI Ambition to Trusted Action
- Beyond the Degree: Building the Human Capital for an AI-First Economy
- AI as a Business Enabler, from Envisioning to Execution
- Generative Creativity How AI is Changing Music, Art, and Storytelling
- The Future of Learning & Work
- Michio Kaku
- Chandra Donelson
- Daniel Bedingfield
- Dr. Jack McCauley
- Luc Dammann
- Sultan Moraished
- Isabelle Kumar
- Sabya Sen
- Larissa Abi Nakhle
- Dr. Ali Abusnina
- Joe Atkinson
- Gert Jan Van Halem
- Hugo Riley
- Isa Mutlib
- Misbah Uraizee
- Laurie Fuller
- Faisal Saeed
- Janna Saloangas
- Will Badr
- Anton Dzhoraev
- Susannah Streeter
- Grace Adamson
- Faisal Saeed
- Anil Cheriyan
- Ray Pang
- Atul Gupta, MD
- Dinakar Munagala
- Steve Nouri
- Rabi Atiti
- Franklin Urteaga
- Julie Teigland
- Marco Casalaina
- Dr. Tanja Kuzman
- Maha Achour
agenda url: https://deepfest.com/2026-agenda
- Day 1: The Intelligence Era – Strategy & Enterprise Transformation
- Day 2: Responsibility & Global Coordination – Governance & Sovereign AI
- Day 3: Real-World Impact – Industry Deployment & Innovation
- Day 4: The Human Side of AI – Creativity, Learning & Collaboration
- Main Stage – AI, Robotics, Ethics & Sustainability
agenda status: partial
- LEAP 2026
agenda last updated: 2026
- Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA)
- Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)
- Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP)
Previous edition
stats
year: 2025
notes: DeepFest 2025 featured more than 150 speakers and 120 exhibitors, with expected attendance of more than 50,000 people
end date: 2025
start date: 2025
deals count: 0
edition number: 0
floor area sqm: 0
visitors count: 50000
pavilions count: 0
exhibitors count: 120
visitor countries: 0
exhibitor countries: 0
- DeepMedia Stage
- Expanded Speaker Lineup
- Year of Artificial Intelligence
- Prof. Dr. Gesa Ziemer
- Nadia Thalmann
- Ricky Ray Butler
- Dr. Simon See
- Basma Dawwas
exhibitor roi: 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
impact summary: 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
current edition
year: 2026
notes: Projected figures as per DeepFest 2026 official website: 68,000+ visitors, 180+ speakers, 120+ global brands
end date: 2026
source url: https://deepfest.com/
start date: 2026
value status: estimate
edition number: Fourth
visitors count: 68000
exhibitors count: 120
estimated visitors count: 68000
estimated exhibitors count: 120
- 20000
- 80
- 50
- 48000
- 120
- 150
- 50000
- 120
- 150
- 68000
- 120
- 180
- 120
- 68000
audience quality: 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
- Inaugural Edition
- Second Edition
- Third Edition
- 2026
next edition outlook
- Wikiwand Com
- Deepfest Com
summary: 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
confidence: Medium
- 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
Exhibitors
total: 0
exhibitor analysis quality
total rows: 0
rows with hall: 0
classified rows: 0
rows with booth: 0
unclassified rows: 0
classification coverage pct: 0
Market
region: 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
- From Generative AI Hype to Enterprise-Grade Deployment
- Sovereign AI and National Infrastructure as a Competitive Advantage
- Convergence of Global Tech Giants in the Gulf AI Ecosystem
- AI as a Core Pillar of Economic Diversification
- Live Demos and Immersive AI Experiences
similar event circuit
title: Key AI and Technology Events in the Middle East and Beyond (2026)
- GITEX AI Middle East 2026
- Saudi AI Summit 2026
- Global AI Show Riyadh 2026
- World AI Expo Dubai 2026
- DeepFest 2026
- LEAP 2026
- Gulf AI Governance Summit 2026
- GITEX Global 2026
- World Summit AI Qatar 2026
summary: 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
- May – July 2026 (Pre-DeepFest)
- August – September 2026 (Peak Season)
- October – December 2026 (Post-DeepFest)
source note: Event data sourced from AI in Arabia (aiinarabia.com), a comprehensive directory of AI events in the Arab world
planning window: March–December 2026
Logistics
visa
required: true
official url: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
ata carnet notes: Saudi Arabia is not a member of the ATA Carnet system. Exhibitors should arrange temporary importation of goods through a licensed customs broker
on arrival available: true
free nationalities notes: 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
weather notes: 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)- 11 - . Humidity is low- . All indoor areas are air-conditioned. Carry water, wear light clothing, and use sunscreen when outdoors
- Dress Code
- Prayer Times
- Local Customs and Etiquette
- Language
- King Khalid International Airport
connectivity notes: 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
local currency code: SAR
Visitor persona
visa
notes: 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
partner url: https://onegiantleap.com/visitor-resource-center
official url: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
estimated cost: 107
processing time: e-Visa: 24–72 hours; Visa-on-Arrival: on arrival
requirement summary: 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
hotels
- Near Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center (RECC)
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
- Olaya District
- North Riyadh
recommended check in: 2026
recommended check out: 2026
flights
partner url: https://onegiantleap.com/visitor-resource-center
- Europe
- North America
- Asia
- Middle East
booking notes: Book flights well in advance as DeepFest is co-located with LEAP, a major global tech event, attracting significant international attendance
destination airport: King Khalid International Airport (RUH)
weather
month: August-September
packing notes: 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
temperature range: High: 44°C (111°F), Low: 30°C (86°F)- 11
rain or seasonality: Virtually no rainfall; extremely dry
transport
parking: Over 7,500 parking spaces are available on-site. CP1 parking operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM during build-up
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)
hotel to 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
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- 10
airport to 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
- Confirm event pass and badge details
- Confirm visa and travel documents
- Book flights and hotel
- Shortlist target exhibitors/sessions
- Prepare meeting calendar
itinerary builder
- Riyadh Front
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia
- Al Masmak Fortress
Exhibitor persona
compliance
notes: Detailed compliance rules are provided upon booth confirmation
insurance required: Exhibitors are advised to obtain public liability insurance covering their stand and activities
electrical or safety rules: All electrical installations must comply with Saudi standards. Exhibitors must use approved contractors
lead capture
notes: Official lead capture methods and badge scanner availability are not specified in publicly available materials. Exhibitors are advised to contact the DeepFest team directly for details on lead retrieval services
- https://deepfest.com/partner-with-us
availability status: unknown
recommended followup sla: Within 48 hours of the event
- Confirm booth package and payment deadlines
- Submit stand design and contractor forms
- Book staff travel and accommodation
- Prepare freight and customs documents
- Prepare lead capture, collateral, and follow-up workflow
freight shipping
notes: Saudi Arabia does not accept ATA Carnets. Use a licensed customs broker for temporary importation
partner url: https://expomax360.com/
deadline summary: Freight should arrive at the venue during the build-up period (19–30 August 2026)
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading / Air waybill
- Customs declaration
official handler: ExpoMax (recommended logistics partner)
Planning
exhibitor
lead capture
notes: Official lead capture methods and badge scanner availability are not specified in publicly available materials. Exhibitors are advised to contact the DeepFest team directly for details on lead retrieval services
recommended followup sla: Within 48 hours of the event
- Riyadh Front
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
- National Museum of Saudi Arabia
- Al Masmak Fortress
- Kingdom Centre Tower
best visit day: Day 3 (2 September 2026)
- Main Stage Area
- Exhibition Floor Lounges
- Riyadh Front
- Plan Your Arrival
- Badge Collection
- Getting Around
- What to Bring
- Technical Sessions
- Exhibition Floor
- Networking
best visit day reasoning: 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
Costs
calculator
currency: USD
per diem usd: 50
booth sqm max: 100
booth sqm min: 6
visa cost usd: 80
- Economy (Round-trip from London)
- Economy (Round-trip from Dubai)
- Economy (Round-trip from New York)
nights default: 3
booth sqm default: 9
insurance cost usd: 50
shell per sqm low usd: 0
shell per sqm high usd: 0
hotel mid per night usd: 150
hotel budget per night usd: 60
hotel premium per night usd: 350
booth prices
notes: 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: https://deepfest.com/form/sales-brochure-download
standard booth sqm: 0
raw space per sqm low: 0
raw space per sqm high: 0
shell scheme per sqm low: 0
shell scheme per sqm high: 0
Decision tools
quiz result config
mode: visit_exhibit_skip
intro: 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
- 🔍 Visit as an Attendee
- 🏢 Exhibit as a Sponsor/Exhibitor
- ⏩ Skip – Not the Right Fit
tie label: Balanced Approach
tie description: You have a near‑equal match for multiple options. Consider your top priorities and revisit your budget and goals. DeepFest offers significant value for both visitors and exhibitors, so even a tie suggests strong participation potential
Partners
- ExpoMax
Answers
- Prof. Dr. Gesa Ziemer
- Nadia Thalmann
- Ricky Ray Butler
- Dr. Simon See
- Basma Dawwas
Sources
- DeepFest Official Website
- Visitor Resource Centre – LEAP & DeepFest 2026
- Exhibitor Resource Centre – LEAP & DeepFest 2026
- Register now for LEAP x DeepFest 2026
- DeepFest Official Website – Plan Your Presence
- DeepFest – Why Exhibit for 2026
- Weather in Riyadh Region 2022-2026
- Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center – Malham
- DeepFest Returns to Riyadh as Saudi Arabia Marks 2026 the Year of Artificial Intelligence
- DeepFest 2026 – SaudiCon
- Tahaluf LinkedIn Page
- DeepFest Official Website – Content Overview
- DeepFest 2025 showcases Saudi Arabia's AI ambitions
- AI pioneers to gather at DeepFest during LEAP summit
- DeepFest – Wikiwand
- DeepFest 2025 in Riyadh to Spotlight AI Future with Robots, Tech Couture and AI Doctors
- Saudi Arabia's 'Year of AI' Takes Center Stage at DeepFest 2026 as Global Tech Giants Converge on Riyadh
- DeepFest 2026 Returns to Riyadh as Saudi Arabia Accelerates Its AI Leadership Vision
- DeepFest 2026 will return to LEAP and you can register now
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- DeepFest 2024: Bringing the global AI community to Riyadh
- Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center – Malham
- How to Get from King Khalid International Airport to Riyadh City
- Official Saudi Visa Portal
- DeepFest AI Exhibition – Exhibitor Support
- AI is moving fast. Markets are moving faster
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- 2026 Agenda – DeepFest
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