RIYADH: An international economic report has recognised Saudi Arabia as a leading global player in the development of a data-driven and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered economy, highlighting the Kingdom’s rapid progress in building a comprehensive national ecosystem for digital transformation.
The report, titled “Securing Nations in the Intelligent Economy: Turning AI and Quantum Disruption into Strategic Advantage”, published by Microsoft and Accenture, praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts in advancing artificial intelligence, strengthening digital infrastructure and promoting innovation in line with the objectives of Vision 2030.
It identified the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) as a leading national model for managing and developing a countrywide data and AI ecosystem.
According to the report, SDAIA has played a central role in shaping national policies, enhancing digital capabilities, supporting technological innovation and establishing strategic partnerships with major global technology companies.
The report noted that Saudi Arabia has adopted a comprehensive strategy to accelerate AI adoption by developing national digital enablers, investing in human capital, localising advanced technologies and expanding cooperation between government institutions and the private sector.
These initiatives, it said, have helped create an integrated ecosystem capable of supporting innovation, improving economic competitiveness and reinforcing the Kingdom’s digital sovereignty.
The report also highlighted SDAIA’s National Artificial Intelligence Index as one of Saudi Arabia’s key initiatives for measuring the readiness of government entities to implement AI technologies.
The index evaluates the maturity of AI applications across government sectors and provides strategic recommendations aimed at improving public-sector performance while ensuring the responsible, ethical and sustainable use of artificial intelligence.
The recognition comes as Saudi Arabia continues to position technology, data and AI as key drivers of economic diversification under Vision 2030, with the Kingdom seeking to emerge as a global hub for innovation and advanced digital solutions.
