Hong Kong Lands LEAP East for Three Years; Tech Summit Returns in 2027

Hong Kong has secured an exclusive three-year deal with Tahaluf to host LEAP East, the Asian debut of Saudi Arabia's premier technology conference brand, reinforcing the city's global leadership in innovation and technology. The inaugural LEAP East 2026, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from July 14, 2026, utilized over 35,000 square meters of rentable space and attracted more than 25,000 professionals, policymakers, and investors, including 300 startups and 600 investors representing over US$6.5 trillion in assets under management. With a diverse mix of 55% international and Chinese Mainland participants and 45% local attendees, the event marked Hong Kong's largest-ever inaugural technology event.

Ms Monica Lee-Müller, Managing Director of HML, highlighted the success as a testament to Hong Kong's role as a 'super-connector' bridging economies, innovation, capital, and cultures. She emphasized the close collaboration between the Hong Kong SAR and Saudi Arabian governments, noting that LEAP East is among several major events that have chosen to return to the HKCEC with larger scale. The venue's world-class facilities and professional services, including Muslim-friendly amenities that earned it the first Gold-standard Muslim-Friendly MICE Venue accreditation, were pivotal in attracting international delegations. Ms Annabelle Mander, Executive Vice President of Tahaluf, praised the HKCEC as the ideal venue for fostering collaboration and innovation, citing outstanding halal dining options, bilateral meeting rooms, and prayer facilities that catered to Saudi visitors.

LEAP East served as a global bridge, showcasing synergies between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong in AI, FinTech, and other technology sectors. The summit's success underscores the HKCEC's role as a premier MICE hub in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and a gateway for Mainland Chinese enterprises to connect internationally. HML expressed gratitude to the Government for its support and to Tahaluf for committing to a three-year run, with LEAP East set to return to HKCEC in 2027. The event's impact is expected to drive continued economic benefits and elevate Hong Kong's international image as a leading technology and business destination.