Innovation Authority Unveils National Initiatives To Advance Future Economies In Saudi Arabia

The Research Development and Innovation Authority (RDIA) has introduced several initiatives to boost Saudi Arabia's research and innovation landscape. These initiatives were revealed at the innovation in future economies event, held alongside the LEAP25 conference in Riyadh. The focus is on aligning innovative solutions with emerging economic trends.

During the event, RDIA announced national missions targeting future economic priorities. These missions aim to unify research and innovation efforts for a prosperous economic future. Plans include establishing five knowledge cities across Saudi Arabia by 2040, developing a scalable quantum computer by 2045, and creating a general AI that serves humanity by 2050.

The launch also highlighted two national alliances. The first alliance focuses on developing Saudi Arabia's first autonomous logistics vehicle, involving 14 government, academic, and private entities. This initiative aligns with the global growth of autonomous vehicles and robotics. The second alliance is dedicated to quantum computing, aiming to support Saudi Arabia’s research ecosystem.

A national innovation roadmap was unveiled, focusing on AI and digital technologies, cognitive urban life, and new physical frontiers. This roadmap aims for global leadership in emerging trends like AI, robotics, immersive technologies, and quantum computing. It outlines steps to tackle challenges across key sectors, boosting productivity and economic resilience.

RDIA announced the establishment of the first AI and data analytics centre of excellence in the private sector. This centre will focus on healthcare research in collaboration with Alfaqih Group. With an investment of SAR100 million, it aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for healthcare innovation powered by AI.

The National Semiconductor Hub revealed its success in attracting 10 global semiconductor companies through cooperation with the National Technology Development Program (NTDP). These companies will design electronic chips in Saudi Arabia. A chip design centre and an electronic system manufacturing line for automotive electronics will be established with UltraSense Systems.

Research Excellence Award

The event also saw the introduction of the "Research Excellence Award in Future Economies." This award encourages research within national priorities. Recipients included Professors Carlos Duarte, Mohamed-Slim Alouini, Muhammad Ghulam, Tareq Al-Naffouri, Bernard Ghanem, Abdullah Abu Surrah, Osman Bakr, Saleh Alshebili, Obaid Al-Saqqaf, Ahmed Al-Qarni, Donal Bradley, and Khalid Al-Mashouq.

Additionally, RDIA released the "Emerging Technologies in Future Economies Report." This report highlights technological advancements necessary for shaping future strategies. It explores areas that will transform human life while aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and national research missions.

An RDIA report on RISC-V was also issued to introduce its open architecture. It emphasises its potential for developers to create cost-effective processors tailored to various applications across vital sectors.

With inputs from SPA