Saudi Arabia Ranks First Regionally And Ninth Globally In Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure Readiness

The General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA) has propelled Saudi Arabia to a prominent position in geospatial knowledge infrastructure readiness. The Kingdom advanced from 32nd place in 2022 to 9th in the Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure Readiness Index (GKI). This achievement makes it the leading country in the Middle East and Arab World, and 6th among G20 nations. The announcement was made at the Geospatial World Forum 2025 in Madrid, held from April 22 to 25.

The Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure Readiness Index is a strategic framework developed by Geospatial World with support from the United Nations Statistics Division. It evaluates countries' readiness to adopt geospatial knowledge, promoting economic growth, sustainable development, and digital transformation. Saudi Arabia's remarkable progress reflects its commitment to these goals.

Saudi Arabia ranked sixth globally in the policy axis due to its pioneering governance of national geospatial data systems. The Kingdom has prepared policies, standards, and specifications aligned with international best practices. In the infrastructure axis, it secured seventh place for unifying national efforts related to geospatial information. This includes building a national geospatial platform accessible to public and private sectors, academia, non-profit organisations, and individuals.

The Kingdom's eighth-place ranking in the geospatial industry axis highlights its role in fostering strategic partnerships across various sectors. These efforts underscore Saudi Arabia's constructive contributions to global geospatial initiatives.

The Kingdom's progress is attributed to unwavering support from its leadership. The Minister of Defense, who chairs GEOSA's Board of Directors, has provided strategic guidance that has positioned Saudi Arabia as a leader in the geospatial field both regionally and globally. This leadership has also led Riyadh to host the United Nations Global Geospatial Ecosystem Center of Excellence.

GEOSA plays a crucial role in organising the survey and geospatial information sector within Saudi Arabia. Its mandate includes adopting and developing national geospatial infrastructure while establishing standards and controls for integrated use among stakeholders.

This achievement positions Saudi Arabia as a beacon for future exploration of innovative geospatial information management methods worldwide.

With inputs from SPA