Saudi Arabia Emerges As Regional Leader In 4IR Technologies, According To WEF President

At the 3rd Saudi Forum for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), World Economic Forum President Børge Brende highlighted Saudi Arabia's leadership in adopting 4IR technologies for sustainable development. He noted that artificial intelligence (AI) could contribute about 12% to the Kingdom’s GDP by 2030, crediting this to Saudi Arabia's ambitious vision in innovation and technology.

The forum, themed "Frontiers of Global Technology," was organised by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Saudi Arabia (C4IR Saudi Arabia) with partners including the World Economic Forum and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). The event gathered ministers, senior officials, and leaders from technology and innovation sectors worldwide.

Brende further elaborated on AI's potential, estimating it could add around $16 billion to the global economy by 2030. This underscores AI as a key driver for future economic expansion. The forum commenced with a session titled "Governing Convergence Across Borders, Sectors, and Societies," featuring prominent figures like KACST President Dr. Munir Eldesouki and Alfaisal University President Dr. Mohammed Alhayaza.

Dr. Basmah AlBuhairan, Managing Director of C4IR Saudi Arabia, emphasised AI's convergence with biotechnology and quantum computing as crucial for developing solutions that benefit humanity while supporting sectoral development. She stressed that countries must deploy technology responsibly to balance progress with sustainability.

The first day's agenda included a session led by National Information Center President Dr. Esam AlWagait on "Leading National Transformation Through Data and AI." He discussed Saudi Arabia’s efforts to build advanced digital infrastructure to enhance government services and decision-making processes.

Discussions explored technology governance, industry futures, digital transformation, and AI's role in accelerating shifts in government and industry. The evolving roles of public and private sectors were debated alongside practical models and case studies highlighting future opportunities and challenges.

Strategic Partnerships

The forum also witnessed strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening national capabilities in various sectors. C4IR partnered with Alfaisal University to enhance quantum economy capabilities. Another partnership between KACST and GlycanAge focused on localising advanced clinical technologies for early disease detection.

KACST also collaborated with the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) and local companies like ilot Solutions, CNTXT, and Giza Arabia to integrate advanced technologies into vital sectors. These collaborations aim to bolster the innovation ecosystem within Saudi Arabia.

Exhibition Highlights

An accompanying exhibition featured local and international entities showcasing technological advancements. KACST's Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Center offered an interactive Metaverse experience simulating future manufacturing processes using technologies like 3D printing, robotics, smart supply chains, and industrial simulation.

Aramco presented its digital transformation journey along with AI-powered solutions, while NIDLP showcased its strategic initiatives. These exhibits highlighted ongoing efforts towards digital transformation within various industries in Saudi Arabia.

The forum will continue tomorrow with sessions focusing on converging technologies and the quantum economy. These discussions aim to further explore how these advancements can be harnessed effectively across different sectors.

With inputs from SPA