What Was LEAP 2023?
LEAP 2023 (LEAP23) was a giant technology conference held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 6 to 9 February 2023. It pulled in more than 100,000 tech innovators and leading experts from around the world to share ideas, form partnerships, and meet mentors and investors. The official page sat on the LEAP site. While LEAP is a broad tech event, not a pure crypto show, blockchain and Web3 are a strong part of its programme.
LEAP is one of the flagship events of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 plan to build a digital economy. To follow tech and Web3 gatherings, see CoinGabbar's Web3 tech events list and the crypto events calendar.
Key Themes at LEAP 2023
The agenda spanned the whole tech stack:
- AI and emerging tech, a focus you can follow on our crypto AI events hub.
- Blockchain and Web3 for the region.
- Startups and venture across the Middle East.
- Cloud, data, and smart infrastructure.
The sheer scale made LEAP a magnet for global tech firms. Many guests also tracked broader blockchain events through CoinGabbar.
How Crypto Is Growing in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is moving carefully but steadily on crypto, with Vision 2030 driving its digital ambitions. Crypto is not banned, but service providers are not formally licensed for retail trading, and banks need approval from the regulator, SAMA, to deal with crypto firms. The kingdom has leaned into central-bank work instead, taking part in Project Aber with the UAE and the cross-border mBridge CBDC pilot.
The signs of growth are clear. Crypto activity in Saudi Arabia grew sharply, with one report citing around 154% year-on-year growth to roughly USD 31 billion in value received, and the kingdom now accounts for a meaningful share of global mining. In May 2025, the Saudi central bank's reserve arm disclosed exposure to a major crypto-linked stock, and officials have signalled stablecoin and payment plans for later in the decade. With more than 280 fintech firms and a young, connected population, Saudi Arabia is steadily opening up, and mega events like LEAP put that ambition on display. For more shows, see CoinGabbar's crypto conferences page.
Impact of the Event on Saudi Tech and Web3
A 100,000-strong tech conference does a lot for Saudi Arabia. It signals the kingdom is serious about a digital economy under Vision 2030. It draws global firms, founders, and capital to Riyadh. And it gives blockchain and Web3 a stage in a market that is opening up. Each LEAP strengthens the case for the kingdom as a regional tech hub.
Why Sponsors, Exhibitors and Partners Should Join
A mega tech event reaches buyers, founders, and capital at scale. Strong fits include:
- Blockchain and Web3 firms: reach a fast-opening market.
- AI and data companies: meet government and enterprise buyers.
- Exchanges and custodians: build regional relationships early.
- Infrastructure and cloud providers: support Vision 2030 projects.
- Funds and sovereign investors: spot tech and Web3 teams.
To get a booth or talk slot at a future edition, you can list a crypto event or contact the CoinGabbar team.
Why KOLs, Media and Influencers Attend
A mega event is a media magnet. KOLs and influencers find big news, top speakers, and a huge crowd. Media meet founders, officials, and Web3 leaders in one place. Coverage can spread through the crypto press release network.
Why Builders and Participants Join
For builders, LEAP offers scale and access. You meet government buyers, global firms, and investors in one venue. You learn where the region's digital economy is heading. Many leave with partners, leads, or a clearer plan for the Saudi and Gulf markets.
Tickets and PR Offers With CoinGabbar
Want to attend a major tech event for less? CoinGabbar offers ticket discounts at partner events and free or discounted press release publishing for projects booked through us. To sponsor, partner, or add your event to our digital asset events list, email event@coingabbar.io.
How the Event Concluded and What Came Next
LEAP 2023 wrapped up as one of the biggest tech gatherings in the region, with fresh ties between global firms, founders, officials, and investors. Many partnerships and deals took shape here. By drawing 100,000-plus people to Riyadh, LEAP showed Saudi Arabia is serious about a digital economy under Vision 2030, the same push now opening the door to blockchain and Web3. It also helped pave the way for bigger LEAP editions and more Saudi tech events. To follow what came next, see the crypto events calendar and our blockchain events page.
Glossary of Key Terms
- Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia's national plan to diversify its economy beyond oil.
- SAMA: the Saudi central bank, which oversees how banks handle crypto.
- Project Aber: a joint Saudi-UAE central bank digital currency experiment.
- mBridge: a multi-country cross-border CBDC pilot Saudi Arabia joined.
- Web3: the next phase of the internet built on blockchains and ownership.
Disclaimer
This page is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, or tax advice. LEAP is a broad technology event and took place in February 2023; future dates and details may differ. Saudi crypto rules are evolving; always check current law. Please confirm with the official source and do your own research. Crypto assets are volatile and can lose value.
