In a new global achievement that adds to its impressive record of digital transformation, Saudi Arabia has ranked first globally in the Artificial Intelligence Adoption in the Public Sector Index. This prestigious ranking, according to a report by Public First Research Agency, highlights the Kingdom's remarkable progress in integrating AI technologies into its government operations, surpassing leading nations in this field.
Background to the achievement: Vision 2030 and the National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence
This achievement did not come about by chance, but is a direct result of ambitious strategic plans adopted by the Kingdom, most notably “Saudi Vision 2030,” which has placed digital transformation and the deployment of advanced technologies at the heart of its objectives to diversify the economy and improve the quality of life. In this context, the establishment of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) in 2019 marked a pivotal turning point, as it was tasked with regulating this vital sector and leading innovation within it. SDAIA launched the National Data and Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NSDAI), which aims to make the Kingdom a global leader in this field by 2030, through investing in talent, encouraging research and development, and building a robust technological infrastructure.
Report details and index results
The index was based on a broad survey of 3,335 government employees in 10 major industrialized and economic countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and India. The results showed that approximately two-thirds of Saudi Arabia's public sector employees use artificial intelligence (AI) tools daily in their work, the highest rate recorded globally. The report also revealed that the Kingdom achieved advanced scores across all five dimensions of the index: enthusiasm, education, empowerment, training, and inclusion. This excellence reflects a stimulating government work environment, with three-quarters of employees reporting that their organizations have invested in providing AI tools, and over 80% confirming they have received the necessary support and training to develop their skills in this area.
The importance and expected impacts of the achievement
This ranking holds significant strategic importance on multiple levels. Locally , the adoption of artificial intelligence contributes to enhancing the efficiency of government services provided to citizens and residents, expediting procedures, and improving decision-making based on accurate data analysis. Regionally , this achievement solidifies Saudi Arabia's position as a leader in digital transformation in the Middle East, making it a model for neighboring countries seeking to modernize their public sectors. Internationally , the ranking strengthens the Kingdom's reputation as a global hub for technology and innovation, attracting further foreign investment and partnerships with leading global technology companies, and supporting its ambitions to build a globally competitive, knowledge-based economy.
