Saudi Arabia's Government Entities Reach 74% AI Readiness In Emerging Technology Adoption

The Digital Government Authority unveiled the 2025 Emerging Technologies Adoption Readiness Index at the LEAP25 conference. This index highlights significant advancements in the adoption of emerging technologies by government entities. The readiness rate has reached 74.69%, marking a "proficient" level for Saudi Arabia, compared to 70.70% in 2024 and 60.35% in 2023.

Eng. Ahmed Alsuwaiyan, Governor and board member of the Digital Government Authority, commended the efforts of government bodies in embracing new technologies. He emphasised that the index for 2025 centred on AI as a pivotal technology, noting its role in cost reduction, task acceleration, and productivity enhancement.

Alsuwaiyan highlighted the necessity of ongoing collaboration to refine digital experiences and improve quality of life. He stressed investing in emerging technologies to achieve sustainable impacts and enhance user experiences. The report indicated that 49 government entities participated in this third edition of the index.

The report assessed four key capabilities: research, communication, proof, and integration. Government entities scored 73.47% in research capability, showing readiness to analyse priorities and manage risks effectively while exploring the value of emerging technologies.

Communication capability reached 74.63%, reflecting robust collaboration between government bodies and technology experts through national events showcasing innovations. Proof capability achieved a score of 75.99%, indicating progress in developing prototypes for emerging technologies to boost efficiency and innovation.

Integration capability scored 74.69%, confirming the government's dedication to aligning new technologies with strategic goals. Several notable projects were highlighted, such as using generative AI in the "Fasah Content Clearance System" for books, which cut costs by 95%.

Innovative Projects Driving Success

The "Smart Neighborhood Monitoring" project utilised AI to enhance urban landscapes by removing 92% of construction waste. Other initiatives included "Truck Crossing Tracking" using IoT, geological surveying via drones, and robotic surgery technologies contributing to high success rates in surgeries.

This comprehensive approach underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to leveraging technology for improved governance and public service delivery, setting a benchmark for future technological integration within governmental frameworks.

With inputs from SPA