In a recent global assessment by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Saudi Arabia has achieved a significant milestone in the field of information and communication technology (ICT), securing the second position among G20 countries in the 2023 index.
Scoring an impressive 94.9 points, the Kingdom has ascended 10 places since the previous year, surpassing the worldwide average score of 72.8. This marks a notable advancement in the country’s ICT capabilities.
The United States holds the top spot in the ICT Development Index among G20 nations, with a score of 96.6 points. Meanwhile, other major economies such as the United Kingdom and Japan trail behind Saudi Arabia, with scores of 92.8 and 92, respectively.
The ICT Development Index evaluates the progress of 169 countries in expanding ICT services. It is based on two core principles: ensuring “universal connectivity” and promoting “meaningful connectivity.”
The ITU’s analysis also takes into account the quality of infrastructure and the provision of secure internet access for all individuals.
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission of Saudi Arabia has acknowledged the index as an indication of the Kingdom’s dedication to enhancing its ICT infrastructure and services. These improvements are aimed at stimulating economic growth and expanding opportunities. It has also been noted that Saudi Arabia’s ICT market is the largest and most rapidly expanding in the Middle East and North Africa region.
In their statement, the commission pointed out that the country’s robust ICT framework and the availability of dependable services play a pivotal role in fostering the national digital economy. These factors also serve to attract investments and contribute to the expansion of the Saudi ICT sector.
Aligned with the objectives of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s ICT sector is advancing steadily. This ambitious plan is set to establish the Kingdom as a leading technology hub.
With an internet penetration rate of 99 percent, Saudi Arabia has seen significant investment in the ICT sector, amounting to SR93 billion (approximately $24.79 billion) over the past six years.
Since 2016, the country has been implementing the National Strategy for Digital Transformation, now approaching its final phase known as the Smart Government Strategy. This initiative aims to revolutionize the government experience for users by 2024, making it more efficient and user-friendly.