Saudi Arabia has recently been ranked 14th globally and first in the Arab world in the Global Artificial Intelligence Index approved by the United Nations, represented by the Advisory Board for Artificial Intelligence. Out of 83 countries, this ranking confirms that Saudi Arabia is the fastest-growing country in the world in artificial intelligence, advancing 17 ranks in the index. The Kingdom also secured 7th place globally in the standard of trade in artificial intelligence, showcasing its commitment to adopting and developing AI technologies, investing in its infrastructure, and building national capabilities in this field.
Launched in 2019, the Global AI Index classifies the artificial intelligence landscape through seven main indicators: government strategy, operating environment, infrastructure, research and development, competencies, and trade, with 122 criteria branching out from these indicators. This achievement reflects the continuous support and leadership that the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) receives from the Saudi leadership to advance in the field of data and AI, providing data-related capabilities and anticipatory abilities, and enhancing them with continuous innovation in the field.
SDAIA has been at the forefront in leading the national direction for data and AI to achieve the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The authority has worked on developing a national strategy for data and artificial intelligence to unite efforts and launch national initiatives in these fields, aiming to maximize benefits from them. The Global AI Index is issued by Tortoise Intelligence, a multinational company with an advisory board that includes artificial intelligence experts from around the world.
This recognition of Saudi Arabia’s advancements in artificial intelligence not only highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to technological innovation but also positions it as a global leader in this rapidly evolving field. Saudi Arabia’s rise in the Global AI Index demonstrates its commitment to the strategic development and utilization of AI technologies to drive economic growth, enhance national capabilities, and create a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Moving forward, Saudi Arabia is expected to continue its investment in AI research and development, infrastructure, and talent development to further solidify its position as a key player in the global AI landscape. With ongoing support from the Saudi government and organizations like SDAIA, the Kingdom is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and drive sustainable growth in the years to come.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s impressive ranking in the Global Artificial Intelligence Index is a testament to the Kingdom’s vision for the future and its commitment to harnessing the power of AI for economic and societal advancement. As the country continues to prioritize investments in AI technologies and talent development, it is poised to further accelerate its growth in this critical field and maintain its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence innovation.
