A new study shows that Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are outpacing global counterparts in the adoption and usage of artificial intelligence (AI), both at the government and workforce levels. This trend is part of the broader vision of the GCC, particularly Saudi Arabia, to establish itself as a global leader in AI.
Saudi workers, compared to their international peers, are utilizing AI tools at a higher rate, driven by a national strategy to foster AI development. This is in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a major player in AI by enhancing local capabilities and incorporating advanced technologies into its economy. A recent report revealed that Saudi workers across multiple sectors are more likely to engage with AI tools for various tasks, suggesting a forward-looking approach to digital transformation in the country.
According to studies conducted by various research bodies, Saudi Arabia’s focus on artificial intelligence has elevated the country’s rank on the global stage. The Kingdom has secured the top position in the Government Strategy Index for AI, outperforming countries such as Germany and China in key indicators like infrastructure, research, and policy frameworks. This achievement reflects the efforts of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), which has been spearheading the development of national AI strategies, including significant investments in AI talent and infrastructure.
The UAE, another key player in the GCC, has also made strides in AI development, closely aligning itself with regional AI ambitions. The Emirates AI program is fostering a new era of digital transformation, supporting sectors from healthcare to logistics. Across the GCC, governments are actively encouraging AI adoption, with initiatives focused on research and development, education, and integration into various industries, reflecting the strategic importance of AI in shaping the region’s economic future.