Saudi Arabia is further advancing its artificial intelligence sector as part of a broader strategy to diversify its economy and foster innovation across multiple industries. At the recent LEAP conference, industry leaders showcased how AI technologies are driving operational transformation within key domestic companies such as Red Sea Global and WeBook, influencing sectors including green technology, tourism, and international business relations.
Nadeem Bakhsh, CEO and co-founder of WeBook, emphasized the company’s evolution in harnessing AI to enhance tourism, entertainment, and cultural offerings within the Kingdom. He described a rapid internal adoption of AI-driven platforms across departments, contributing to streamlined operations and enriched customer experiences. Bakhsh highlighted that the nation’s progress in technology is built on steady infrastructure growth, education, and strategic leadership rather than sudden leaps, pointing to government regulations as instrumental in facilitating smoother cooperation with various ministries.
The Kingdom’s AI expansion is also fostering stronger international ties, particularly with the United States. Steve Lutes, vice president of Middle East Affairs at the US Chamber of Commerce, discussed the American-Saudi AI-acceleration business delegation, noting a diverse range of corporate interests toward collaboration. He portrayed Saudi Arabia as a strategic regional hub offering numerous opportunities for companies at different stages of maturity. Lutes underscored the critical role of leadership, referencing Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s focused vision to transform Saudi Arabia into an AI-powered economy. This vision, he said, is matched by engagement from US technology firms, spanning multinational corporations to startups, positioning AI as a key area of economic cooperation.
In parallel, Red Sea Global is pioneering sustainable AI applications by integrating solar power in its digital infrastructure. Sultan Moraished, the company’s chief technology officer, detailed the creation of a fully solar-powered data center — a first on a global scale. He explained that extensive studies assessed power consumption needs aligned with solar energy output to optimize efficiency. Despite technological innovation, Red Sea Global remains committed to incorporating human elements tailored to local culture, regulations, and environmental conditions. Moraished credited Saudi Arabia’s investments in infrastructure and skill development with driving this digital transformation.
The emphasis on inclusive design was also noted by other industry voices, stressing the importance of accessibility and privacy in technology development from the outset. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its AI capabilities, these combined efforts reflect a broader national agenda to leverage innovation as a foundational pillar for economic diversification and sustainable growth.