DeepFest 2025 Unveils Saudi AI Aspirations in Riyadh

DeepFest 2025, recognized as the leading artificial intelligence (AI) conference in the world, commenced on Sunday in Riyadh, showcasing remarkable technological advancements such as humanoids, robotic dogs, and an automated panda. This event marks Saudi Arabia's ambition to secure its status as a key player in the global AI landscape.

The four-day event runs from February 9 to 12 at the Riyadh International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Malham and is held alongside LEAP, the Kingdom's prominent technology expo.

Organized by Tahaluf and supported by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the event was officially launched by Dr. Esam Alwigait, the director of the National Information Centre at SDAIA.

Dr. Alwigait referred to DeepFest 2025 as “an event where we can see the future unfold before our eyes.” He emphasized the advancements in AI that Saudi Arabia has made, being ranked 14th in the 2024 Global AI Index. He highlighted the country's swift investments in AI and its leadership position in government AI strategy and governance within the Gulf region.

“During the upcoming four days, we will investigate how AI ethics and regulations correlate with innovation, and how AI is revolutionizing healthcare, sports, urban messaging, and society at large,” Dr. Alwigait stated. “AI is not merely a tool but a significant force that addresses complex challenges and fosters opportunities.”

AI Ethics and Robotics Highlighted at DeepFest 2025

Prominent figures, such as Marc Raibert, founder and executive director of the AI Institute and chairperson of Boston Dynamics, took to the DeepFest Main Stage. Known for his work with robotic dogs, Raibert entertained the crowd with a video of his creations performing ballet, backflips, and parkour. However, he cautioned the audience about overstating the capabilities of robots. “Robots are simple—dumb as door knobs,” he noted, further explaining that while humans can learn mechanical tasks in minutes, it requires extensive teams to make robots execute the simplest tasks.

The AI Institute, under Raibert's leadership, is pushing the boundaries of cognitive AI, enabling robots to observe, comprehend, and imitate complex tasks. He also dismissed fears of a dystopian future with robots taking over. “I don't foresee a scenario where robots rule the world,” he indicated, encouraging people to remain calm and avoid sensationalism.

Additionally, companies like QSS Robotics presented innovations such as automatic baristas, load-bearing robots, and drones, while UBTech unveiled their service robot resembling a panda.

Sony AI President Michael Spranger addressed issues of ethics, creativity, and diversity in AI. “You may view Sony as an electronics firm, but we are fundamentally an entertainment entity now,” he remarked, pointing out that music, film, and gaming account for 60% of Sony's earnings.

He elaborated on how AI-driven diversity initiatives are enhancing representation in media and addressing biases in AI algorithms. Spranger also mentioned Gran Turismo Sophy, an AI-driven elite racing driver that has mastered the game Gran Turismo Sport and is now training top esports competitors. “AI is enabling creators to produce improved games, films, and music,” he stated. “Sophy has become a part of the Gran Turismo narrative for racing fans worldwide.”

Saudi Arabia's Commitment to AI Investment and Development

Annabelle Mander, EVP at Tahaluf, highlighted the significance of DeepFest 2025 in relation to Saudi Arabia's AI strategy. “This event reinforces the essential role AI plays in shaping the future of technology,” she explained. “Co-located with LEAP 2025, which recently announced $14.9 billion in investments from both domestic and international companies, DeepFest acts as a crucial platform for global leaders and innovators to explore the transformative capabilities of AI.”

DeepFest 2025 is set to feature over 150 speakers and 120 exhibitors, with an expected attendance of more than 50,000 participants from across the globe.

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