Saudi Arabia Achieves Top Ranking In UN E-Government Development Index For Open Data And Digital Skills

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has achieved a leading position in the UN E-Government Development Index 2024, particularly in open government data and digital knowledge. This accomplishment highlights the Kingdom's commitment to transitioning into a digital economy, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. Open data is a strategic priority globally, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) plays a crucial role in this transformation.

In early 2022, SDAIA launched the Open Data Program with various government agencies. This initiative aims to boost transparency and innovation, supporting Saudi Vision 2030's objectives. The program enhances data quality and aids decision-making in research and innovation. It also supports creating digital applications and solutions, contributing to the Kingdom's global ranking in open data indicators.

SDAIA has developed eight main principles for managing data as a national asset. The National Data Management Framework includes 14 domains such as data governance, quality, architecture, sharing, analytics, and personal data protection. These efforts aim to maximize data and AI opportunities beyond economic diversification plans.

SDAIA is dedicated to building national expertise in data and AI through its academy. The academy offers training programs for beginners, specialists, and experts. It aims to train 15,000 specialists and 5,000 experts while currently employing over 170 experts. Over one year, more than 628,000 beginners received training in digital skills.

The academy collaborates with 45 local and international organizations for knowledge exchange. It has organized over 35 camps and training programs alongside more than 100 workshops. Initiatives like the International AI Olympiad have benefited over 620,000 students, while nearly 10,000 teachers received AI training.

Empowering Women and Future Generations

The "Elevate" program empowers over 25,000 women globally in AI as part of promoting workforce equality. Additionally, SDAIA launched "One Million Saudis for AI," aiming to prepare Saudis for an AI-driven future by raising awareness about AI uses and ethics.

An AI scholarship program supports national strategy goals by offering external scholarships for talents to compete globally. SDAIA also partnered with NVIDIA for a Generative AI Academy and Microsoft for an AI Academy.

Innovative Initiatives

In September 2023, SDAIA held the "Open Data Datathon" to develop skills in data science using open data for real-world challenges. The "Ghaya" accelerator was launched as the first of its kind in MENA to transform innovative models into successful AI businesses.

This accelerator prepares startups for investment by providing necessary components for success. It aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's leadership in AI by fostering an effective ecosystem that meets global standards.

Smart City Developments

Riyadh ranked third in the UN index due to SDAIA's efforts like establishing the National Smart Cities Platform (Smart C). This platform supports vital sectors such as municipal planning to improve urban landscapes across major cities.

Advanced analytics through simulation models aid future planning with AI-based solutions. Projects like Tawakkalna application serve individuals and entities nationwide while Sawtak converts speech into text using Arabic dialect recognition.

Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards becoming a leader in digital transformation through strategic initiatives led by SDAIA. These efforts not only enhance economic growth but also improve quality of life across various sectors within the Kingdom.

With inputs from SPA