Saudi Arabia ranks fifth globally in the Artificial Intelligence Index
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has achieved another significant milestone, ranking fifth globally and first in the Arab world in the Artificial Intelligence , according to the Global AI Index. This advanced ranking is a culmination of the Kingdom's tireless efforts to strengthen its position as a global technological powerhouse, in line with the goals of Vision 2030 , which places digital transformation and innovation at the heart of its plans to diversify the national economy.
Strategic context and ambitious vision
This achievement was not a coincidence, but rather the result of diligent institutional work that began with the launch of Vision 2030 and the establishment of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority ( SDAIA ) in 2019 as the national body responsible for regulating and developing this vital sector. The Kingdom has invested heavily in digital infrastructure and enacted flexible legislation that encourages innovation, making it an attractive environment for technology investments and a pivotal data hub in the Middle East.
SDAIA initiatives and support for entrepreneurship
The period covered by the report witnessed the launch of a wide range of national initiatives led by SDAIA, which played a crucial role in enhancing the Kingdom's position in the global index. Among the most prominent of these efforts was the "Ruwwad Package" initiative, specifically designed to support entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative enabled them to verify customer data through a direct and secure electronic link with the National Information Center's databases, thus facilitating business operations and increasing the reliability of digital services.
AI ethics and global standards
Recognizing the importance of governance, SDAIA launched the AI Ethics Incentive Labels initiative to raise awareness of ethical practices and ensure the responsible use of modern technologies. This initiative provides a clear regulatory framework that helps developers and companies adhere to the highest international standards. In this context, more than 50 certifications have been awarded to Saudi companies that have developed AI-based products serving vital sectors, reflecting the maturity of the Saudi technology market.
Business accelerators and empowering national talent
In terms of supporting innovation, the generative AI accelerator “Ghayah”, supported by “SDAIA”, the National Information Technology Development Program and in partnership with “New Native”, has contributed to accelerating the entry of many startups into the market, which has enhanced the competitiveness of the private sector.
The Kingdom has not neglected human capital, with the Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) leading significant efforts to build national capabilities and empower young talent through advanced training programs in collaboration with leading global technology companies. The success of the “Samai” initiative stands out, as it is one of the world’s largest training initiatives, having trained over one million Saudi citizens in data and artificial intelligence skills, thus establishing a solid knowledge base to support the future of the Kingdom’s digital economy.
Economic and future impact
The Kingdom's ranking fifth globally confirms the success of its strategy to transform from a consumer of technology to a producer and developer of it. This progress is expected to attract more foreign direct investment, create thousands of high-quality jobs for Saudi youth, and increase the digital economy's contribution to GDP, thus solidifying the Kingdom's position as a global leader in the age of data and artificial intelligence.
