IBM, a global frontrunner in hybrid cloud services, artificial intelligence (AI), and consulting, has revealed its intention to channel over $200 million into the establishment of a new IBM Software Lab in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. This move is a testament to IBM’s pledge to bolster its presence in the region and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030.
The forthcoming lab will concentrate on the advancement of digital innovation and the creation of software products, with a focus on Data & AI and Sustainability Software. Central to the lab’s mission is to foster skill development and generate high-quality job opportunities for the kingdom’s burgeoning IT talent, while simultaneously crafting solutions for the global market.
This significant development was disclosed at LEAP 2024, where H.E. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, and Arvind Krishna, IBM’s Chairman and CEO, were in dialogue.
H.E. Abdullah Alswaha lauded IBM’s decision to establish the software lab in Saudi Arabia, highlighting it as a reinforcement of the country’s success in the ICT sector. He emphasized that the lab will boost Saudi Arabia’s aspirations to become a leading global technology hub and will fast-track AI-powered innovation and business models across various sectors.
Arvind Krishna of IBM highlighted that the new lab will deliver unique value to their global clientele by partnering with the region’s top innovators on pivotal technologies such as AI and hybrid cloud. He reiterated IBM’s longstanding commitment to the Kingdom’s digital transformation journey.
The planned Riyadh IBM Software Lab follows IBM’s announcement of a new regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia. With a presence in the Kingdom dating back to 1947 and operations in over 170 countries, IBM’s continued investment is poised to elevate Saudi Arabia’s global standing and contribute to a progressive future for the region and beyond.
The Riyadh lab will join IBM’s extensive network of software labs situated in the United States, Canada, India, and Europe, further expanding its global footprint.
About IBM: IBM is at the forefront of offering comprehensive hybrid cloud and AI solutions and consulting services, aiding clients across more than 175 countries to leverage insights from data, optimize business processes, and secure a competitive industry advantage. Countless entities within critical sectors like finance, telecommunications, airlines, and healthcare rely on IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift for their digital transformations. IBM’s innovative strides in AI, quantum computing, and industry-specific cloud solutions are founded on a commitment to trust, transparency, and service. For additional information, visit IBM’s official website.