Saudi Arabia Leads in Data and AI: SDAIA’s 2024 Achievements

Riyadh, January 2, 2025 – Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in data and artificial intelligence (AI), thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).

Advancing Global Rankings in Data and AI

SDAIA’s commitment to innovation has propelled the Kingdom to achieve top global ranks in several indicators. Highlights of 2024 include:

• First Place Globally: Government Strategy for AI, Open Government Data Index (OGDI), and ISO certifications for AI management systems.
• Regional Leadership: Ranked first in the Middle East in the E-Government Development Index.
• Notable Global Ranks: Third in the OECD AI Policy Observatory, fourth in the Online Services Index, and seventh in the E-Participation Index.

Key Projects and Innovations

The “ALLaM” Model

SDAIA introduced the “ALLaM” model, which IBM’s Watsonx platform recognized as one of the best Arabic generative AI models globally. Trained on over 385 billion Arabic words, this model supports national security and enhances Arabic language technology.

Healthcare Initiatives

SDAIA’s AI-driven “EYENAI” project revolutionized diabetic retinopathy diagnosis, aiding over 846 patients in 2024 through advanced analytics and early detection.

Unified National Access (Nafath)

Nafath streamlined government service access, saving SAR 2 billion by reducing reliance on human resources and improving service efficiency.

Strengthening Regulations and Ethics

SDAIA is shaping a robust regulatory framework for AI and data usage. Key achievements include:

• Launching the AI Ethics Framework and Generative AI Guidelines.
• Enforcing the Personal Data Protection Law to safeguard privacy and ensure ethical data practices.

Empowering National Talent

SDAIA partnered with global tech leaders like NVIDIA to establish the Generative AI Academy, equipping Saudi talent with world-class AI skills. Boot camps and training programs in collaboration with universities and tech firms further enhanced AI awareness.

Enhancing Smart Government Platforms

Tawakkalna App

Offering over 350 services, the Tawakkalna app streamlined user experiences with one billion transactions completed in 2024.

Deem Government Cloud

By optimizing resources, the Deem cloud saved SAR 5.3 billion, enhancing service reliability across sectors.

Promoting Global Collaboration

Saudi Arabia hosted the Global AI Summit, bringing together 465 experts from 100 countries. The event highlighted the Kingdom’s leadership in AI ethics, including the signing of the Riyadh Charter on AI for the Islamic World.

Looking Ahead

SDAIA’s vision for 2025 focuses on continuous innovation, developing local expertise, and cementing Saudi Arabia’s role as a global hub for data and AI-driven economies.

Stay tuned for more updates as Saudi Arabia leads the way in digital transformation and AI excellence.