LEAP 2026 AI Push: Saudi Arabia’s AI and cloud ambitions took center stage at LEAP, with $15bn in tech deals and a clear message from Comms and IT Minister Abdullah Alswaha: the Kingdom is building an entire tech ecosystem, not just buying tools. Silicon Valley Partnerships: Alswaha also met top investors in California to deepen AI and deep-tech funding, including plans to connect global portfolios with Saudi AI computing via HUMAIN. Riyadh Innovation Ranking: Riyadh landed at 92nd in the Global Innovation Index, the only Gulf city in the top 100, citing hundreds of VC deals and rising patent activity. Saudi Industry Momentum: PIF reported $17bn net profit for 2025 and highlighted its role in driving Vision 2030 industries; Aramco and Maaden signed a critical-minerals exploration JV to speed up hard-rock mining. Manufacturing Upgrades: Qassim Cement secured SAR400m financing for a new Buraydah production line, while Lenovo unveiled its first Saudi-made laptop from a Riyadh facility. Health Tech Global Trend: A new report says AI is reshaping outpatient surgery planning and outcomes, with major funding flowing into surgical AI platforms. Aquaculture Science: Researchers published the first organ-by-organ cellular atlas for a key Gulf farmed fish, aiming to improve disease detection in aquaculture. Energy Shock Watch: Brent surged past $100 amid Middle East escalation, with markets bracing for inflation pressure. BRICS Diplomacy: India’s BRICS summit agenda is set around resilience in food, energy, health and supply chains, but consensus on statements remains uncertain.