The Digital Government Authority of Saudi Arabia and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs are collaborating to establish a digital government center based in Riyadh. The initiative, announced following a letter of intent signed during the Science, Technology and Innovation Forum in New York on Wednesday, aims to promote international cooperation, share expertise, and develop best practices in digital governance.

Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Suwaikai, governor of the Digital Government Authority, emphasized that the selection of Riyadh as the center’s headquarters highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in creating a comprehensive digital ecosystem. He described the center as a significant step toward advancing digital government practices worldwide, supporting member states, and fostering the exchange of knowledge.

The center is expected to leverage artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to enhance digital government services globally. By facilitating collaboration among countries, it seeks to strengthen the capacity of governments to implement innovative digital solutions, thereby improving governance and service delivery.

The establishment of the center reflects growing international efforts to harness technology for sustainable development and public sector transformation. While specific operational details and timelines have not been disclosed, the partnership signals a commitment to positioning Riyadh as a hub for digital government innovation under the auspices of the United Nations.