RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has ascended to a prominent position in global digital governance, achieving the second-highest ranking worldwide in the 2025 GovTech Maturity Index (GTMI) released by the World Bank. The announcement, made at a press conference in Washington on Thursday, highlights the Kingdom’s rapid advancements in digital government and its commitment to Vision 2030. This achievement underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global technology landscape.
The GTMI, which assesses 197 economies, revealed Saudi Arabia’s overall score of 99.64 percent, placing it firmly in the “very advanced” category. The index evaluated key areas including digital infrastructure, core government systems, online service delivery, and citizen engagement. This marks a significant leap forward for the nation’s public sector modernization efforts.
Saudi Arabia’s Rise in GovTech Maturity
Saudi Arabia’s impressive performance across all GTMI indices demonstrates a comprehensive and sustained effort to enhance its digital government capabilities. The Kingdom achieved scores of 99.92 percent in the Core Government Systems Index (CGSI), 99.90 percent in the Public Service Digitalization Index (PSDI), 99.30 percent in the Digital Citizen Engagement Index (DCEI), and 99.50 percent in the GovTech Enablers Index (GTEI). These results earned Saudi Arabia an “A” rating, signifying a highly mature digital ecosystem.
Key Factors Driving the Improvement
According to the Digital Government Authority (DGA), the success is attributable to strong leadership support, integrated government initiatives, and robust partnerships with the private sector. Governor of the DGA, Eng. Ahmed Mohammed Alsuwaiyan, emphasized the dedication of national teams in redesigning government services and building advanced digital infrastructure. This focused approach has been instrumental in achieving this global recognition.
The Kingdom’s commitment to digital transformation is a central pillar of Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens. The plan prioritizes citizen-centric service delivery, enhanced user experiences, and increased operational efficiency within the public sector. This long-term vision has provided a clear roadmap for digital development.
Additionally, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and emerging innovations, has played a crucial role. The report indicates that Saudi Arabia has actively invested in these areas to streamline processes and improve the effectiveness of government services. This proactive approach to technology adoption sets it apart from many other nations.
A Trajectory of Growth
Saudi Arabia’s ascent in the GTMI rankings has been remarkably consistent. The nation rose from 49th place in the inaugural 2020 index to 3rd in 2022, and now holds the second position in 2025. This upward trajectory demonstrates a sustained commitment to improving its public sector through technology. The World Bank’s assessment provides an independent validation of these efforts.
However, maintaining this momentum requires ongoing investment and adaptation. The global technology landscape is constantly evolving, and Saudi Arabia must continue to innovate to remain competitive. This includes addressing potential challenges related to data security, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion.
The focus on citizen engagement is also a key component of Saudi Arabia’s success. By actively seeking feedback and incorporating citizen needs into the design of digital services, the government has been able to create solutions that are more relevant and user-friendly. This citizen-centric approach fosters trust and encourages greater adoption of digital services.
Furthermore, the integration of various government entities has been essential. Breaking down silos and fostering collaboration between different departments has allowed for a more seamless and efficient delivery of services. This coordinated effort has maximized the impact of digital investments.
Looking Ahead: Continued Innovation in Digital Services
The DGA has stated its commitment to further promoting innovation and enhancing the quality of digital services to support the national economy and advance the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The next GTMI is expected in 2027, and Saudi Arabia will likely aim to secure the top position. Future developments will likely focus on expanding the scope of digital services, improving data analytics capabilities, and strengthening cybersecurity measures. The Kingdom’s continued progress in technology will be a key indicator of its overall economic and social development.
While the current ranking is a significant achievement, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to digital services across all segments of the population. Addressing the digital divide and promoting digital literacy will be crucial for maximizing the benefits of digitalization for all citizens.
