The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing significant development in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), reflected in remarkable achievements at both regional and global levels. The Kingdom ranked 14th globally and first in the Arab world in the Global AI Index, adopted by the United Nations and presented by the AI Advisory Body. This ranking, which included 83 countries, stands as testament to the Kingdom’s steadfast commitment to adopting and developing AI technologies, positioning it at the forefront of nations investing in this vital field.
Leadership in Government Strategy and AI Commerce
Saudi Arabia has achieved a distinguished accomplishment in AI, securing the 14th global position and leading the Arab world in the UN-endorsed Global AI Index, represented by the AI Advisory Body. This classification, encompassing 83 nations, underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to embracing and advancing AI technologies.
Saudi Arabia’s excellence extends beyond the overall ranking, achieving advanced positions in key sub-indices. The Kingdom ranked first globally in the “Government AI Strategy” criterion, highlighting the forward-looking vision and ambitious plans adopted by the state in this domain. Furthermore, the Kingdom secured seventh place globally in the “AI Commerce” criterion, affirming its strong commitment to investing in this sector and developing its knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.
Accelerated Progress Achieving a Quantum Leap
The Kingdom’s impressive 17-place advancement in the Global AI Index represents a quantum leap, confirming the diligent and continuous efforts exerted by the state to enhance its capabilities in this field. This progress solidifies the Kingdom’s position as the fastest-growing nation in AI globally.
A Look at the Global AI Index
The Global AI Index, launched in 2019, provides a comprehensive assessment of the global AI landscape through seven key indicators:
- Government Strategy: Evaluating government plans and visions for AI development.
- Operating Environment: Assessing the legal and regulatory environment supporting AI.
- Infrastructure: Evaluating the available technical infrastructure, such as cloud computing and communication networks.
- Research and Development: Evaluating the level of scientific research and innovation in AI.
- Talent: Evaluating the availability of specialized competencies and expertise in AI.
- Commerce: Evaluating the volume of investments and commercial activities related to AI.
These indicators are assessed through 122 sub-criteria, providing a precise and comprehensive overview of each country’s status in this field.
The Support of the Wise Leadership and the Role of SDAIA
These achievements are a result of the unlimited support provided by the wise leadership, headed by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA). This support enables SDAIA to lead national efforts in data and AI, achieve integration between government and private entities, and promote innovation, contributing to the realization of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives.
SDAIA Leading the Future of AI in the Kingdom
SDAIA plays a pivotal role in leading the national direction for data and AI, working to develop the National Data and AI Strategy, unify national efforts, and launch initiatives that enhance the use of data and AI across various sectors, contributing to sustainable development and economic and social prosperity.
Regional Leadership and Accelerated Global Progress
These successive achievements affirm the Kingdom’s position as a rising regional and global power in AI and embody its commitment to achieving comprehensive and sustainable development. Investing in AI is not merely a technological objective but an integral part of the Kingdom’s ambitious vision for a bright future based on innovation, knowledge, and data.
