Saudi Arabia is advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) sector as part of broader efforts to diversify its economy, with leading domestic companies and international partners showcasing innovative applications in green technology, tourism, and other industries. These developments were highlighted during LEAP, the Kingdom’s flagship technology event focused on Leading Edge Advancement and Progress.
Executives from prominent Saudi firms emphasized how AI is becoming integral to operational improvements and customer experience, contributing to the nation’s economic transformation. Nadeem Bakhsh, CEO and co-founder of WeBook, described the company’s rapid growth in deploying AI-driven tools across tourism, entertainment, and cultural sectors. He cited a recent experience where nearly every department presented internal AI platforms and dashboards developed to streamline operations. Bakhsh credited the Kingdom’s steady investment in infrastructure, education, and leadership for fostering an environment where such innovation can thrive, noting that government regulations and streamlined communication with ministries have facilitated business ventures.
Bakhsh and other industry leaders underscored that the Kingdom’s AI sector development is not a sudden leap but the result of gradual progress supported by visionary leadership. This approach has attracted international attention, especially among companies seeking partnerships in the region.
Supporting this view, Steve Lutes, vice president of Middle East Affairs at the US Chamber of Commerce, pointed to the growing collaboration between Saudi and American firms within the AI ecosystem. He noted the strong interest displayed by a recent US business delegation focused on AI acceleration and described Saudi Arabia as a hub for regional and wider opportunities. Lutes emphasized the kingdom’s focused national drive to build an “AI-enabled country,” led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aligns with US technology and innovation across large multinationals and startups. He added that AI is poised to enhance productivity in various sectors, including sustainable energy and tourism, further strengthening bilateral economic ties.
In the realm of green technology, Sultan Moraished, chief technology officer at Red Sea Global, highlighted the company’s pioneering use of solar energy to power a data center, a move designed to address AI’s traditionally high energy consumption. Moraished described the data center as the first in the world to operate entirely on solar power, supported by batteries that store energy generated during the day. This initiative reflects the company’s broader commitment to integrating smart technologies while respecting local cultural, regulatory, and environmental considerations. He noted that Saudi Arabia’s investments in infrastructure, partnerships, and skills development are key drivers of the Kingdom’s ongoing digital transformation.
The focus on inclusivity was also raised by industry participants, emphasizing that accessibility should be integrated into technology development from the outset. Observers stressed that considerations such as accessibility, privacy, and cybersecurity are becoming essential elements of digital innovation, shaping the future design and deployment of AI platforms.
Collectively, these developments demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s concerted efforts to position itself as a leader in AI innovation and create a resilient, diversified economy through strategic investment and international cooperation.