Riyadh is preparing to host Saudi Makes Future 2026 (SMF) from 14 to 16 December 2026 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC), a specialized international event bringing together the artificial intelligence, technology and digital innovation ecosystem and attracting technology companies, innovators, investors, startups and decision-makers from the Kingdom and around the world.
The event is the Saudi edition linked to the global WMF – We Make Future platform, brought to the Kingdom through an international partnership aimed at building a technology bridge between Europe and the Middle East, supporting digital transformation and attracting investment in future technologies, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
A Global AI Platform in the Heart of Riyadh
Saudi Makes Future 2026 offers an experience that goes beyond the traditional technology exhibition, combining an exhibition, a conference, business meetings, startup pitches and workshops, with a focus on turning AI technologies from ideas and innovations into applications and solutions that can be deployed across economic and government sectors.
According to the official website, the event targets more than 70,000 visitors from more than 90 countries, along with more than 300 exhibitors, 100 startups and more than 100 international speakers, based on the figures currently published on the event's homepage.
Multiple Sectors Led by AI
The exhibition places AI at the heart of a large number of future sectors, showing how advanced technology can reshape the economy, business and services.
Fields on the agenda include AI and advanced technologies, startups and open innovation, media and digital creativity, education and future skills, cybersecurity and digital trust, the future of business, digital government and national services, and fintech and the digital economy.
The AI applications on show extend to robotics, automation, advanced industries, space technology, agriculture and food security, smart cities and sustainability, giving companies and investors a view of practical applications of emerging technology across diverse sectors.
Startups and Investment at the Center of the Event
Saudi Makes Future 2026 gives special space to entrepreneurship and technology startups, with project and innovation pitches and opportunities to connect with investors, venture capital funds, companies and decision-makers.
The program also includes the AI 4 Future Startup Competition, an international competition for AI startups that lets participants present their projects to a specialized audience, along with B2B business meetings, knowledge sessions and discussions with technology and investment experts.
Why the Exhibition Matters for the Saudi Market
The exhibition takes place as the Kingdom expands its use of data, AI and digital technology across the public and private sectors, opening the way for global and local companies to develop new partnerships, transfer knowledge and technology and explore investment opportunities.
The event also aims to bring global expertise together with Saudi talent and connect startups with investors and decision-makers, strengthening Riyadh's standing as a destination for international events specializing in technology and the digital economy.
