Davos, January 24, 2025 — Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha delivered a powerful message at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to fostering an innovative and sustainable economy, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation. His remarks, made during a panel session titled “Economic Transformations in the Kingdom,” were underpinned by the support and vision of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, who has been a key advocate for the Kingdom's technological and economic transformation.
Alswaha highlighted that Saudi Arabia is strategically positioned at the forefront of global economic transformation, seizing the unprecedented opportunity to leverage AI and innovation for the betterment of humanity. As the world grapples with the challenges of digital advancement, Alswaha emphasized that success in the AI-driven future requires a blend of realistic optimism, a forward-thinking mindset, and a solid focus on foundational principles. These principles, he explained, are essential for achieving long-term, sustainable growth that benefits all sectors of society.
The Minister proudly discussed the significant progress Saudi Arabia has made in establishing a state-of-the-art digital infrastructure, a key component of the country’s broader economic vision. Thanks to this robust infrastructure, the Kingdom has successfully attracted more than $10.6 billion in investments in cloud computing alone, with major global technology companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google contributing to this influx. This influx of foreign investment is not only a testament to Saudi Arabia’s strong technological foundation but also a clear indication of the country’s growing prominence as a global hub for digital transformation.
Alswaha also touched on the remarkable strides Saudi Arabia has made in developing its human capital, particularly in the field of technology. Under the guiding framework of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom has invested heavily in empowering digital talents and fostering an inclusive, dynamic workforce. Notably, he pointed out the impressive rise in women’s participation in the technology sector, which has grown from a modest 7% to an impressive 35%. This shift is a reflection of the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women across all sectors, particularly in high-tech industries. Furthermore, the number of individuals working in the technology sector has surged, with the workforce now totaling 381,000 talented professionals. This growth signals not only the Kingdom’s success in nurturing talent but also its ability to create an environment that attracts skilled individuals from within the Kingdom and beyond.
Alswaha’s remarks at the WEF underscore Saudi Arabia’s bold vision for the future, where AI and innovation are harnessed to drive economic growth, empower individuals, and create a sustainable future for all. The Kingdom’s strategic investments in digital infrastructure, commitment to fostering talent, and dedication to gender equality stand as pillars of its efforts to build a thriving digital economy, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in the technological revolution. With the continued leadership of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goals and securing a future that is both innovative and inclusive.
