Saudi Arabia Achieves Significant Leap To 4th Place Globally In Digital Services Index By UN

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024, climbing 25 places to become a global leader. The nation now ranks fourth globally, first in the region, and second among G20 countries in digital services. Riyadh also achieved third place among 193 cities worldwide. This progress highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to digital transformation and innovation.

The Kingdom's remarkable advancement is attributed to the unwavering support from King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Alswaha, expressed gratitude for their backing of the digital sector. He emphasised that this achievement aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's role as a leader in the digital economy both regionally and globally.

Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Alswaha highlighted that Saudi Arabia's historic ranking results from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's empowerment efforts. The minister affirmed the nation's commitment to pursuing leadership and innovation towards an economy driven by creativity. This dedication is evident in the country's strategic plans and programs under Saudi Vision 2030.

Digital Government Authority Governor Eng. Ahmed bin Mohammed Alsuwaiyan noted that Saudi Arabia's consistent rise in the EGDI reflects wise leadership's support for delivering top-notch digital government services. He praised the impact of executive programs under Saudi Vision 2030 on improving the country's index ranking through reforms and investments.

The Digital Government Authority played a crucial role in advancing Saudi Arabia's position by collaborating with government agencies to adopt emerging technologies. These efforts included launching digital initiatives, enhancing service maturity, and fostering talent in digital transformation. Such collaboration has been instrumental in achieving this advanced status.

The report commended Saudi Arabia for its substantial progress in digital government, securing sixth place globally. Since launching Vision 2030, the Kingdom has seen quality investments leading to a jump of 53 places in the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index (TII) and notable progress of 31 places in the Human Capital Index (HCI).

Significant Improvements Across Indices

Saudi Arabia's Online Service Index (OSI) saw a remarkable leap of 67 places, placing it fourth globally by 2024. Additionally, regulations governing digital government reached full maturity at 100%, while open data accessibility for citizens and businesses also achieved complete coverage.

The Kingdom advanced by 60 places in e-participation and consultations aimed at individuals and businesses. These improvements reflect structural reforms that enhance productivity, efficiency, and user experience through developing digital governments across UN member states.

The EGDI is published biennially as a key international indicator for over two decades. It serves as a vital reference for assessing government performance worldwide through its sub-indexes.

With inputs from SPA