Overview
Saudi Arabia is becoming a big name in the world of artificial intelligence (AI). The country is working hard to use new technologies for a better future. This progress is part of a plan called Vision 2030.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial intelligence means using computers to do tasks that usually need human brains. Saudi Arabia uses AI to help the government and companies work smarter.
Experts Speak Out
Two experts told Okaz that Saudi Arabia is now important in the global AI scene. They highlighted the country’s strong plans, big investments, and partnerships with top tech companies. Saudi Arabia wants to not just use technology but also lead and shape its future.
Strong Position in AI
Abdulmohsen Al-Juaithan, an AI expert from Silicon Valley, said that Saudi Arabia is doing well in AI thanks to Vision 2030. The country ranks 14th in the Global Artificial Intelligence Index for 2025 and is the best in the Middle East. This success comes from good government plans, solid infrastructure, and training talented people. Al-Juaithan believes AI could add between $135 billion and $235 billion to the economy by 2030, making up about 12.4% of it. One exciting project is the $100 billion Transcendence project, which aims to create a full AI ecosystem with advanced data centers and support for startups. The Kingdom has also teamed up with big companies like Google, which opened a global AI center, and invested heavily in cloud computing.
Improving Public Services
Saudi Arabia ranks sixth in the United Nations E-Government Development Index for 2024. The country uses AI to make public services better. Al-Juaithan mentioned that Saudi Arabia leads the world in training women in AI, with programs aiming to train 25,000 women by 2030. The goal is to prepare 20,000 experts in AI and data through university programs like King Saud University’s master’s degree in AI.
National Strategy for AI
Dr. Sarhan Al-Saeed, an Assistant Professor of Industrial Systems Engineering, explained that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 includes a national strategy to boost its global AI position. This strategy has more than 326 activities, such as camps, workshops, and hackathons, helping over 590,000 people. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is working on creating 245 data management offices in government agencies to help with AI changes. It is expected that many routine jobs will be automated soon.
AI Services and Savings
Al-Saeed pointed out that many organizations are using AI through cloud services and online tools, benefiting millions of users and saving over $50 billion.
Support for Entrepreneurs
Saudi Arabia is also supporting small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) with initiatives and incubators that help turn new ideas into successful businesses. This effort aims to create a vibrant community that embraces AI practices and new business models.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is making great strides in artificial intelligence as part of its Vision 2030 goals. With strong leadership, investment, and support for education and innovation, the Kingdom is set to be a leader in the global AI landscape.
Read: Saudi Researcher Helping the Deaf Community with AI
