Saudi Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives received a significant boost as it launched an ambitious strategy to establish itself as a global AI and data leader by 2030.
The plan includes training 20,000 specialists and experts. It also aims to have 300 active startups in the field of AI. Additionally, Saudi Arabia plans to attract $20 bn in national and foreign investment in data and AI.
Here, we highlight some of the more prominent Saudi AI initiatives you should know about.
NEOM
Announced in 2017, NEOM is a colossal $500 bn global development project. Its aim is to be fully powered by solar and wind energy.
The city, spanning an impressive 170 km2 of land, presents an innovative blueprint designed for future generations to replicate for up to 150 years. Sustainability, technology, and innovation are some of the ambitious goals at the heart of NEOM.
What is more, the development plan for NEOM embodies the concept of smart cities, utilizing AI and related technologies to drive economic growth and enhance quality of life.
NEOM, already attracting significant investments and top talent from around the world, is poised to shape the world’s vision of future urban life as a unique laboratory.
National Strategy for Data and AI
The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) was established in 2019 to actively support and drive the data and AI agenda in the country. Its primary goal is to position the Saudi Arabia as a global leader in data-driven economics.
Furthermore, SDAIA consists of three entities that work together to fulfill the commitments of a government and economy that are based on data and supported by AI.
- National Data Management Office
- National Information Center
- National Center for Artificial Intelligence
In 2020, the Authority announced the National Strategy for Data and AI, which aims to create an environment where the best of data and AI can be put into practice.
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National AI Capability Development Program
To establish Saudi Arabia as a global AI leader, the SDAIA partnered with Huawei for the National AI Capability Development Program.
This program aims to tap into the country’s estimated $4 to $5 bn data and AI economy. Additionally, by utilizing data insights in government decisions, the program could generate over $10 bn in government revenues and savings.
In order to make this possible, SDAIA is leveraging Huawei’s extensive portfolio of 500 AI projects across various sectors.
Subsequently, the Program will offer support to governments, enterprises, and research institutes in the Kingdom. Similarly, it will assist them in finding AI technology partners, enhancing their talent pool, and discovering new growth strategies through AI applications.
Ultimately, this collaboration promises to deliver the desired outcomes by actively contributing to the Kingdom’s economic growth and diversification through various Saudi AI initiatives.
Global AI Summit
Saudi Arabia hosts the Global AI Summit annually to promote and discuss advancements in AI technology. In particular, it serves as a platform to collaborate and exchange knowledge on the latest trends and developments in AI.
As part of Saudi AI initiatives, the summit showcases the country’s commitment to becoming a global leader in AI adoption. The event features keynote speeches from renowned experts, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions.
Naturally, the summit focuses on technological advancements. In addition, it emphasizes the ethical and societal implications of AI. It provides a forum for discussions on responsible AI deployment, data privacy, cybersecurity, and the impact AI has on job markets and economic growth.
Red Sea marine life
To preserve Red Sea fish species and assess their sustainability, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is harnessing the power of AI.
Through machine learning technologies, KAUST analyzes large volumes of data on fish populations, fishing practices, and environmental factors. In addition, applying predictive models to past data improves future stock level forecasting.
Traditionally, identifying declines in stock levels can take up to a decade using conventional data collection methods. This is where AI comes in, allowing KAUST to expedite the process and make informed decisions in a timely manner.
In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainable food production to combat malnutrition, AI is seen as a valuable tool. Therefore, KAUST is developing an AI-based tool that categorizes fish based on their economic value and population growth rate.
KAUST’s AI utilization cements Saudi’s leadership in the field, fueling economic growth and diversification via Saudi AI initiatives.
AI-powered vs desertification
Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges due to desertification and the impacts of climate change. To address this, the Ministry of Environment launched an AI-powered program in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification and the KAUST.
The program assesses vegetative cover and supports afforestation projects and the “Green Saudi” initiative. By analyzing satellite images and data using AI, the program identifies areas at risk of desertification. Furthermore, it continuously monitors vegetation, rainfall, and plant health through remote sensing technologies.
Strategies to mitigate desertification include tree planting, improved water management, and sustainable agriculture practices. These Saudi AI initiatives demonstrate their dedication to environmental preservation and sustainability.
Looking ahead
These Saudi AI initiatives strive to accelerate AI adoption, foster innovation, and stimulate economic growth. As a result, the country is becoming a significant player in the global AI landscape.
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