Saudi Arabia Ranks 5th Globally and 1st in the Arab World for AI Sector Growth

Saudi Arabia has achieved a major milestone in its technological transformation, ranking fifth globally and first in the Arab world for artificial intelligence sector growth, according to the latest Global AI Index. The achievement reflects the Kingdom’s rapid advancements in AI development and its growing global competitiveness under the framework of Saudi Vision 2030.

During the assessment period, Saudi Arabia launched a series of national initiatives led by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). These initiatives significantly strengthened the country’s position on the index. Among them is the Rowad Package, designed to empower entrepreneurs and startups by enabling secure customer data verification through an electronic link with the National Information Center.

SDAIA further advanced AI governance by introducing the AI Ethics Incentive Badges initiative, which promotes responsible AI practices and ensures adherence to global ethical standards. More than 50 national AI companies have already received accreditation for developing advanced AI solutions in priority sectors.

Another key driver of growth is the generative Gaia AI accelerator, launched in collaboration with the National Technology Development Program (NTDP) and New Native. The program has supported startups in accelerating product development and achieving faster market entry.

A cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s success is the SDAIA Academy, which has focused on cultivating national talent through specialized AI and data training programs in partnership with international institutions. Through its flagship SAMAI initiative, developed with multiple government partners, the academy has trained over one million Saudi men and women one of the largest AI and data training programs ever implemented for a general population.

These achievements showcase SDAIA’s pivotal role in driving national AI excellence and position Saudi Arabia at the forefront of global data- and AI-driven economies. As the Kingdom continues to advance its AI ecosystem, it is steadily moving toward its goal of becoming a global leader in emerging technologies.