competition
Saudi Makes Future
The largest international event for Artificial Intelligence in middle east
14 · 15 · 16 DEC 2026 | RICEC
RIYADH | KSA
RIYADH | KSA
What to expect at SMF
A New Landmark for AI: WMF Expands to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
In a strategic milestone that reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a global technology and innovation hub, the international festival WMF (We Make Future) is expanding to the heart of the Kingdom through a strategic international partnership with Saudi Makes Future.
This expansion establishes a powerful tech bridge between Europe and the Middle East, bringing together leading technology companies, AI pioneers, startups, and investors under one roof. The event aims to accelerate digital transformation, empower local talent, and attract key investments in future technologies and applications—aligning directly with the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s leadership as a regional and global technology powerhouse.
The WMF event in Riyadh
The Kingdom’s Global Platform for Innovation, AI, and the Digital Economy connecting visionary minds, emerging technologies, and transformative ideas that power Vision 2030 and beyond.
Saudi Makes Future (SMF) is a landmark technology and innovation festival celebrating the future of the digital world. From artificial intelligence and robotics to sustainability and smart cities, SMF unites industry leaders, startups, investors, creators, and governments to shape the next era of human progress in the heart of Saudi Arabia.
Explore Featured AI Sectors & Get Ready for SMF2026
Discover the key sectors being transformed by AI, and explore how technology is shaping the future of investment and innovation at SMF2026
AI & Advanced Technologies
Accelerating the Kingdom’s digital future through cutting-edge AI solutions and strategic growth.
AI-Driven Startups & Open Innovation
Artificial Intelligence powering entrepreneurship, venture capital, and acceleration in Saudi Arabia
AI-Driven Creative & Digital Media
Artificial Intelligence powering content, gaming, metaverse, and MediaTech in Saudi Arabia
AI-Driven EdTech & Future Skills
Artificial Intelligence powering education, skills development, and workforce transformation
AI-Driven Cybersecurity & Digital Trust
Artificial Intelligence securing digital ecosystems, identity, and trust in Saudi Arabia
AI-Driven Digital Business & Future of Work
Artificial Intelligence reshaping business, marketing, and the future of work in Saudi Arabia
AI-Driven Digital Government & National Services
Artificial Intelligence advancing sovereign digital government and public services in Saudi Arabia
AI-Driven FinTech & Digital Economy
Next-generation Artificial Intelligence powering digital payments, blockchain, and inclusive finance for all
Why Attend SAUDI MAKES FUTURE AI EXPO?
Experience Next-Gen Innovation
Discover cutting-edge AI technologies, bold solutions, and real-world applications redefining industries globally
Network with Key Decision-Makers
Connect directly with global investors, enterprise buyers, government leaders, and high-growth startups to spark high-value partnerships
Gain Insights from 250+ Tech Leaders
Learn actionable strategies and visions from top international experts across AI, FinTech, Smart Cities, Robotics, and Sustainability
Tap into Saudi Arabia’s Mega-Projects
Unlock direct commercial and investment opportunities within the Kingdom’s national AI framework and multi-billion-dollar giga-projects
Bridge Global & Regional Expertise
Engage with a powerful blend of international innovators and top local talent inside the MENA region’s fastest-growing tech hub
Be Part of the Region’s Premier AI Event
Join the ultimate global gathering for technology and digital transformation, where visionary ideas convert into measurable business impact
Just a few We Make Future speakers
Sir Tim Berners-Lee
Inventor of the World Wide Web
Federico Faggin
Physicist & Microchip Inventor
Jerry Kaplan
Scientist, AI Expert, Silicon Valley Pioneer & Tablet Inventor
John Wesley
Invest Senior Director
Philip Kotler
Autore
Robot Sophia
Social Humanoid Robot
Papu Gomez
Footballer, World Cup champion with Argentina
Giorgio Chiellini
Former footballer, sports executive, and entrepreneur
Gianfranco Zola
Sport Executive, former football player & coach
Dardust
Producer & Artist
Elio
Singer-songwriter and musician
The Flying Man
Siyabulela Mandela
Human Rights Activist
Manuel Castells
Chair Professor Communication Technology and Society
Claudio Domenicali
CEO
Francesco Ubertini
President
Veronica La Regina
Space Mentor
Pierre-Philippe Mathieu
Implementation Manager of ESA Space Resilience Nodes
Michiel Scheffer
President of the Board
The Event topics
AI Startup
AI Investments
panels
AI Experts
talks
AI Business
meetings
An event to access the global AI
& Digital Innovation ecosystem
AI 4 Future Startup Competition
The AI 4 Future Startup Competition:
Join the international AI Startup Competition and pitch in front of an AI-specialised audience. Bring your idea in the heart of middle east Innovation.
B2B Synergies & Sponsorship
The sponsorship offer the opportunity to play a leading role, ensuring global visibility for brands.
It provides exposure to an audience of key AI stakeholders, including investors, VCs, experts, and companies from both the Saudi Arabia and global markets.
AI Knowledge & Networking
An exclusive audience will attend the WMF event in Riyad to dive into the latest trends in AI technology.
Talks with field experts and panels dedicated to the AI & Digital Innovation investment ecosystem, with a particular focus on the Middle East market.
What makes our event unforgettable
Exhibition Area | 20,000 – 30,000 sqm
A world-class showcase floor featuring interactive demos, cutting-edge innovations, and immersive experiences designed to connect ideas with opportunities.
70,000+ Attendees
A vibrant community of innovators, thought leaders, investors, and change-makers gathering to network, learn, and shape the future.
90+ Participating Countries
An international showcase of innovation, bringing diverse perspectives and fostering cross-border collaboration.
1000+ Exhibitors
Global enterprises, regional champions, and cutting-edge startups showcasing breakthrough technologies and transformative solutions.
Country Pavilions
Dedicated pavilions will highlight national achievements in AI, digital transformation, and sustainability. Each pavilion showcases innovation from local companies, startups, government initiatives, and academic institutions — positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in emerging technologies.
1000 Startups Showcased
A spotlight on bold and disruptive ventures redefining industries and accelerating the future economy.
4 Stages of Content & Dialogue
From keynote speeches to live debates, four dynamic stages will host conversations that inspire action and drive change.
500+ Conference Speakers
Global pioneers and regional leaders sharing insights on AI, digital transformation, and the industries shaping tomorrow.
50+ Hands-On Workshops
Expert-led sessions offering practical tools, strategies, and skills development for professionals, entrepreneurs, and aspiring talent.
With the support of
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WMF International Roadshow | RIYADH 14-16 DECEMBER 2026
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