Adoption of emerging technologies in Saudi Arabia will exceed 76% by 2026
The Saudi Digital Government Authority announced the results of its fourth annual “ Emerging Technologies” report for 2026, revealing rapid development and unprecedented digital maturity in the performance of government institutions in the Kingdom. The overall index recorded a significant leap, reaching 76.04% compared to 74.69% in 2025, with broad participation encompassing 54 government entities, up from 49 in the previous cycle. This continued progress reflects the Kingdom’s firm commitment to comprehensive digital transformation and building a sustainable knowledge-based economy, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
The journey of digital transformation and the dimensions of adopting emerging technologies in the Kingdom
These positive results are part of a long journey undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since the launch of Vision 2030, where the wise leadership placed digital transformation at the forefront of its national priorities. This progress was not accidental, but rather the result of meticulous strategic planning and the establishment of a sophisticated digital infrastructure capable of absorbing the latest global innovations. The Digital Government Authority has played a pivotal role since its inception in organizing digital government operations and enabling various entities to implement best technological practices.
The historic shift from digitizing traditional transactions to adopting emerging technologies represents a fundamental transformation in the philosophy of government work. These technologies are no longer merely experimental tools or technological luxuries, but have become essential pillars for enhancing performance efficiency, increasing productivity, and accelerating transaction processing, thus directly contributing to improving the quality of life and facilitating the experience for beneficiaries, including citizens, residents, and the business sector.
Details of performance indicators and distinguished government entities for 2026
The 2026 Readiness Index report demonstrated significant progress across various technical capabilities of participating entities. According to official figures, the progress was distributed as follows:
- Search capacity: The highest percentage was recorded at 78.07%.
- Integration capability: It came in second place with a score of 77.00%.
- Communication ability: Achieved a rate of 75.18%.
- Proofability: Recorded at 73.92%.
Regarding the evaluation of government entities' performance, the top 20 were ranked according to their advanced and distinguished performance levels. The "distinguished" category included: the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Energy, the Communications and Space Technology Commission, and the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON).
Leading government entities ranked at the “advanced” level include: the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the Ministry of Health, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, Saudi Post (Subul), the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, the Ministry of Justice, the General Organization for Social Insurance, the Ministry of Culture, and King Khalid University. This comprehensive diversity reflects the engagement of all vital sectors in the digital transformation process.
Artificial intelligence and smart solutions are driving the digital future
Engineer Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Suwayan, Governor of the Digital Government Authority, explained that the report's findings highlight the ambitious efforts of government entities and their effective transition from the experimental phase to the practical and sustainable application of modern technologies. The report showcased a number of inspiring success stories that employed advanced technologies such as generative artificial intelligence, proxy artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and robotics.
These advanced technologies have contributed to automating complex procedures, improving big data-driven decision-making, and delivering proactive and innovative government services. This transformation has not only streamlined processes but has also resulted in tangible economic savings and enhanced operational efficiency for institutions.
The strategic impact of Saudi digital leadership locally and internationally
The impact of this rapid progress in adopting digital solutions extends to multiple dimensions that transcend local, regional, and international boundaries:
- At the local level: It contributes to building a vibrant society and a thriving digital economy, enhancing the confidence of citizens and investors in government services and accelerating the pace of business and investment.
- At the regional level: It consolidates the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional leader in technology and digital innovation, and provides a model for neighboring countries on how to successfully lead government digital transformation.
- At the international level: It enhances the Kingdom’s competitiveness in global indicators such as the United Nations E-Government Development Index, and attracts foreign investments in the technology sector, placing Saudi Arabia among the countries most prepared for the digital future globally.
