Sports Startups Sign Digital Deals at LEAP 2026

A series of memorandums of understanding were signed at LEAP 2026 in Riyadh between Saudi sports-sector entities and startups graduating from innovation programs supervised by the Ministry of Sport, aimed at deepening cooperation in digital sports solutions. The event ran from 31 August to 3 September 2026 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham.

The agreements focus on adopting innovative digital solutions and services across the sports sector, while supporting startups to develop their businesses, expand their market presence, and improve growth and sustainability within the Kingdom's sports ecosystem. Several deals target digital transformation in facility operations, fan experience, and sports services at venues such as King Fahd Sports City — including AI video analytics, audio and communications systems, and high-density Wi-Fi.

The Ministry of Sport took part through a dedicated pavilion in the Sports Tech Hub zone, positioned as a platform for signing partnerships between local and international sports entities and Saudi startups, and for showcasing technologies related to AI, data, immersive experiences, fan engagement, performance analytics, ticketing, and payments.

Gaming and esports agreements

On the gaming side, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology signed a cooperation framework with Savvy Games Group to support gaming and esports startups, integrate Savvy's Nine66 Incubator Program with the national Center of Digital Entrepreneurship, and deliver talent programs through Tuwaiq Academy and Saudi Digital Academy. Savvy Games Group also signed new MoUs with Gosu Academy and Warpzone AI Labs to train talent in game development, design, and esports management, develop gamified and simulation-based learning, and explore establishing a local AI-native game research and development lab.

The agreements support رؤية السعودية 2030 goals to develop national talent and strengthen sports-tech and games-industry capabilities. For residents, the moves point to upgraded stadium experiences, faster connectivity at major venues, and new opportunities for local tech talent in a fast-growing sector.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving