The National Strategy for Data & AI for Saudi Arabia

The National Strategy for Data & AI for Saudi Arabia is designed to guide the Kingdom’s efforts in harnessing the potential of data and AI to foster economic growth and improve public services. Recognising the increasing importance of data in today’s economy, this strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a key player in the global data and AI landscape.

The strategy seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for effectively collecting, managing, and utilising data, ensuring it serves as a valuable resource for various sectors. By focusing on building a skilled workforce, creating supportive regulatory environments, and encouraging investment in data and AI technologies, the strategy aims to enhance the Kingdom’s competitive edge.

The establishment of the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) will play a crucial role in coordinating these efforts and implementing initiatives that align with the broader objectives of Vision 2030. Ultimately, this strategy aims to facilitate the integration of data and AI across government, private sector, and society, contributing to improved decision-making, operational efficiencies, and the overall well-being of the population.

Vision and strategic direction

• Long-term vision: KSA aims to be the place where the best of data and AI is realised, emphasising ethical applications and a robust ecosystem.
• Strategic objectives:
  1. Position KSA as a global hub for data and AI.
  2. Develop a local supply of data and AI talent.
  3. Create an attractive regulatory environment for data and AI businesses.
  4. Attract investments in data and AI.
  5. Enhance research and innovation capabilities in data and AI.
  6. Stimulate adoption of data and AI across sectors.

Roadmap for action

• Phased approach: The strategy includes phases focused on maximising use cases by 2030 and positioning KSA as a global leader in data and AI thereafter.
• Key initiatives: These include establishing open data policies, developing a skilled workforce, fostering partnerships, and facilitating research and innovation.

Strategic targets

• By 2030, the strategy aims to achieve:
  • 40% of the workforce trained in data and AI literacy.
  • 15,000 local data and AI specialists.
  • Top rankings in open data initiatives and peer-reviewed publications.
  • Establishment of a vibrant startup ecosystem with around 300 data and AI startups.

Priority sectors

• Education, government, healthcare, energy, and mobility are identified as priority sectors for data and AI adoption, driving transformation in these areas through technology integration.