TEHRAN – Knowledge-based companies will participate in the fifth edition of LEAP Exhibit, scheduled for April 13 to 16 at Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center, Malham, Saudi Arabia.

LEAP is a massive annual global technology event showcasing cutting-edge AI, robotics, fintech, and digital innovations, this year it is expected to bring together over 200,000 tech professionals.

Themed ‘Into New Worlds’, the event serves as a central hub for witnessing the future of tech, with a strong focus on AI-driven advancements, robotics, and smart infrastructure.

The exhibition will be centered around different axes including Artificial Intelligence and DeepTech (Large-scale, transformative AI, including Arabic-specific language models and interactive AI-driven robotics(, Future Technology Sectors (the event covers FinTech, HealthTech, Smart Cities, Space, and Sustainability/Climate Tech), Innovative Prototypes (Live demonstrations of ground-breaking technologies, such as interactive, digital clothing and advanced VR training), Startup and Investment Hub (A dedicated space for startups to connect with investors and VCs to secure funding), and Themed Stages (Multiple stages for in-depth discussions on topics like Code, DeepFest, and Orbital Tracks).

Knowledge-based firms will set up their pavilions with the help of the Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy. The event will serve as a platform to showcase knowledge-based services and products, expand technology exports, hold B2B meetings, enhance cooperation with investors and tech professionals in the region, and explore the latest trends in emerging technologies. 

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Technology and Innovation Report 2025, Iran is ranked among upper middle-income countries, ranking 72nd among 166 countries

The country’s ranking has improved by one position compared to 2022. UNCTAD has categorized 17 types of technologies as frontier technologies, including artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, big data, 5G, 3D printing, robotics, drone technology, solar photovoltaic, concentrated solar power, biofuels, biogas and biomass, wind energy, green hydrogen, electric vehicles, nanotechnology, and gene editing.

The Technology and Innovation Report 2025: Inclusive Artificial Intelligence for Development surveyed the complex artificial intelligence landscape, aiming to help decision-makers design science, technology, and innovation policies that foster inclusive technological progress.

The Report 2025 called for AI that puts people first and was shaped through global cooperation in which all countries have a say. The Report identified three key leverage points – infrastructure, data, and skills – offering a broad socioeconomic perspective on AI while analyzing requirements and policies to promote sustainable industrialization and innovation.

The sub-indices of readiness for frontier technologies in 2025 showed that Iran’s best ranking is in the research and development sub-index (35th in the world).

In the finance sub-index, the country’s ranking has improved from 62 in 2022 to 56 in 2025. In other sub-indexes like skills and the establishment of information and communication technology, its ranking has lowered from 74 and 78 in 2022 to 82 and 94 in 2025, respectively.

According to Nature Index, the country’s ranking in scientific production in Artificial Intelligence (AI) has improved from 33 to 30, placing the country among the top 50 leaders, Hossein Afshin, an official with the vice-presidency of science and technology, has said.

Iran’s ranking in the region fluctuates between 14 to 17, which is mainly due to focusing on quality, he said, adding, “We’re optimistic to improve the country’s scientific position within the next two years,” IRNA reported.

The official went on to say that the country is following up on developing AI infrastructure, including the AI platform and the AI assistant, in the near future.

According to the latest report by Oxford Insights index, which measures government readiness for implementing AI in public services, Iran ranks 91st among 188 countries, moving up three positions compared to 94th in 2023.

AI has a key role to play –not just in governing the technology, but in helping governments perform better.

The Government AI Readiness Index has become a trusted resource for policymakers, adopted as an official benchmark by national governments.

MT/MG