Technology

Saudi Arabia is prioritizing technology investments as a key part of its economic strategy. The kingdom aims to enhance its information and communications technology sector by 50%. In the global telecom landscape, a Beijing-based operator stands out as the fourth-largest by subscriber count, boasting approximately 423.43 million users.

The Saudi Arabian 5G technology market is expanding rapidly, driven by the Vision 2030 initiative which prioritizes digital infrastructure and smart city development. Key factors include increased demand for high-speed internet and mobile broadband. The government and telecom companies are investing significantly in 5G infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and supporting technologies like IoT. Network infrastructure is advancing with new 5G base...

Saudi Arabia has launched a new international water research center through a collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). This initiative, supported by Minister Eng. Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, aims to address key water challenges globally. The center was unveiled during a dialogue on "Sustainable water management in arid and semi-arid...

Saudi Arabia has been heavily investing in the global tech sector, but now it seeks to attract foreign tech companies to invest within its borders. The kingdom aims to leverage this to develop AI data centers, startups, and more, according to recent reports. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, has shifted focus from international investments to...

Saudi Arabia has significantly invested in global tech, and now seeks foreign tech companies to invest within its borders, focusing on AI development, according to recent reports. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom has directed its resources towards the tech sector, with ambitions to establish itself as a major AI hub. This shift is highlighted by plans for...

Saudi Arabia is embarking on an ambitious project called "Project Transcendence," aiming to transform the nation into a leading hub for artificial intelligence (AI) with potential investments up to $100 billion. This initiative seeks to enhance the country's technological infrastructure by focusing on data centers, AI startups, and key infrastructure developments. This project is part of a larger strategy to...

Mastercard has launched its Mastercard Gateway in Saudi Arabia, supported by The Saudi Central Bank. This infrastructure aims to enhance local e-commerce transaction processing. The Mastercard Gateway serves as a central hub for payment and digital acceptance solutions, aiding both local and global markets. Merchants can access over 30 payment options and advanced risk management tools, including fraud prevention, while...

Mastercard is enhancing Saudi Arabia's digital payments infrastructure to bolster secure ecommerce transactions. Mastercard has unveiled a cutting-edge technology infrastructure in Saudi Arabia to process ecommerce transactions locally. This initiative aims to provide a seamless and secure payment experience, supporting the Kingdom’s digital commerce growth. Under the auspices of the Saudi Central Bank, Mastercard's new Gateway expands its regional presence,...

Sir Edward Byrne, newly appointed to lead King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, has indicated a shift in priorities towards American technology, emphasizing the importance of US chip access over ties with China. Byrne, an Australian neuroscientist and former president of King’s College London, was appointed as KAUST's president recently. The university relies heavily on...

The Saudi Arabian RegTech industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by advancements in technology and regulatory demands. This report offers a detailed analysis, highlighting market opportunities and challenges with over 50 KPIs at the national level. As businesses strive to improve compliance, the demand for RegTech solutions is on the rise. Despite regulatory complexities, the sector is poised for...

The Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) has entered into a collaboration with Elm, focusing on boosting the AI capabilities within government institutions in Saudi Arabia. This partnership, announced during the Global Artificial Intelligence Summit in Riyadh, aims to improve the efficiency of government services through AI technology. SCAI, established in 2021 and owned by the Public Investment Fund, seeks...

Qualcomm, Aramco, and Saudi Arabia's Research, Development and Innovation Authority (RDIA) are collaborating to launch the Design in Saudi Arabia (DISA) program. DISA aims to nurture Saudi startups utilizing AI, IoT, and wireless technologies for industrial applications. The program will support early-stage tech startups by offering guidance from product design to commercialization. It provides technical assistance, business coaching, and intellectual...

The Saudi Arabian manufacturing sector is on a promising path, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to drive technological advancements. With a strategic aim to diversify beyond oil, the nation is heavily investing in AI to boost innovation, streamline operations, and enhance productivity. Government initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030, alongside strong infrastructure, support the integration of AI in manufacturing. A growing tech...

Aramco and SLB have partnered to develop and commercialize digital solutions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the industrial sector. These solutions will be integrated into SLB’s digital sustainability platform, enhancing their collaboration from 2022. The platform helps industrial companies move toward net zero by facilitating the measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) of emissions. This data aids in...

RIYADH — The General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA) and the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones have signed a memorandum of cooperation to integrate geospatial technology with drone systems. The agreement aims to enhance coordination in using geospatial technology for drones, develop a unified drone platform, and support the growth of the geospatial sector in Saudi...

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, along with the National Information Technology Development Program (NTDP), has launched the "Tamkeen" initiative. This program aims to bolster Saudi technical talent within micro, small, and medium enterprises. The initiative is part of the broader Vision 2030 plan to stimulate the digital economy. It focuses on encouraging technology companies to hire Saudi professionals...

HALO Space, a Spanish startup focused on taking tourists to the edge of space via a high-altitude balloon, is setting up its final assembly and testing facilities in Saudi Arabia. This move is part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to attract global startups and establish itself as a prominent aerospace hub. HALO Space's CEO, Carlos Mira, praised the favorable business...

Aramco Digital, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's state-owned Aramco, has partnered with Groq, an AI inference company, to establish a major inferencing data center in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration was announced at the Global AI Summit in Riyadh. The partnership builds on a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the LEAP event. Groq highlighted that this initiative is pivotal...

Saudi Arabia's electric vehicle (EV) sector needs charging stations every 100 km on highways to support its growth, according to Mohamed Al-Mubarak, general manager of Charging Arabia. At the EV Auto Show in Riyadh, Al-Mubarak stressed that a robust charging infrastructure is crucial to alleviate range anxiety and promote e-mobility. The Kingdom aims to convert 30% of Riyadh's vehicles to...

Aramco Digital, a branch of Aramco focusing on digital and technology advancements, has partnered with Accenture to drive generative AI (gen AI) innovation and enhance digital skills in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration aims to facilitate widespread adoption and innovation with gen AI, addressing the Kingdom’s digital talent needs and supporting Vision 2030. Aramco Digital will utilize Accenture LearnVantage’s AI-driven platform,...

The Saudi Arabia Battery Market is experiencing notable growth due to increased demand for energy storage solutions, driven by investments in renewable energy projects. Batteries play a critical role in storing energy from solar and wind sources, ensuring a stable energy supply. Technological advancements in lithium-ion and solid-state batteries are enhancing performance and reducing costs, making them more accessible. The...

Riyadh's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, alongside the National Technology Development Program, has introduced the Tamkeen Initiative. This program is designed to empower Saudi technical professionals in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative aims to equip these professionals with essential skills and resources, contributing to the growth of the digital economy in line with the Kingdom's Vision...

Saudi Arabia has achieved significant recognition in the UN digital services index, ranking first in the region and fourth globally. The Kingdom climbed 25 spots in the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024, establishing itself as a global leader. Within the G20 countries, Saudi Arabia secured the second position and ranked seventh in the e-participation index. Riyadh, the capital city,...

The Saudi Arabian IoT in healthcare market is experiencing significant growth driven by key factors. Government initiatives and investments in digital health technologies, as part of Vision 2030, are enhancing healthcare infrastructure and promoting IoT adoption. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and an aging population are boosting the demand for connected health devices for remote monitoring and personalized...

UNOX Arabia, a leader in intelligent cooking technology, hosted a panel in Riyadh focused on the F&B sector's role in Saudi Arabia's tech industry, emphasizing investment, innovation, and growth. The discussion aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, highlighting the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in culinary advancements. Event Highlights The panel highlighted the F&B sector's contribution to Vision 2030 through...

The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has updated the Regulation on Personal Data Transfer Outside the Kingdom, introducing new guidelines under the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL). These revisions, effective 1 September 2024, include significant changes to the previous regulations. Key Updates: The new Data Transfer Regulations maintain similar concepts regarding adequate jurisdictions and purposes for transfer but reduce...

Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman emphasized the critical role of nuclear security and safety, asserting that each state is responsible for maintaining its system according to national and international standards. The Kingdom is advancing its nuclear energy initiatives, recognizing its importance for social and economic development. Prince Abdulaziz, speaking at the 68th Session of the International Atomic Energy...

Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in becoming a major hub for artificial intelligence (AI). Recent high-profile events and partnerships highlight the kingdom's commitment to this goal. In the past few months, Saudi Arabia has hosted numerous AI-related events and leaders, showcasing its ambition to attract AI companies and investments. A notable event was the Global AI Summit, which featured...

Yango Tech, a leader in e-commerce technology, has partnered with Al Sadhan and SPAR to enhance retail technology in the MENA region. Announced at the GAIN Summit in Saudi Arabia, this collaboration aims to streamline shopping experiences through advanced digital solutions. The agreement was signed at the King Abdulaziz International Convention Centre by Badr Al Sadhan, CEO of Al Sadhan,...

Groq Partners with Aramco for AI Data Center in Saudi Arabia AI startup Groq Inc. is collaborating with oil giant Aramco to establish a massive data center in Saudi Arabia, aiming to serve AI operations across the Middle East, Africa, and India. Groq, based in California, will manage what is projected to be the world's largest AI inferencing center, initially...