Cisco advances AI to support Saudi Arabia's digitization goals
At LEAP 2025, Cisco, a global leader in networking and security, unveiled a series of strategic initiatives to advance AI in partnership with the Kingdom. By introducing advanced cloud data centers, AI talent development, and phased plans for local manufacturing, Cisco is deepening its commitment and strengthening its partnership with Saudi Arabia. These initiatives are designed to enhance Cisco's regional presence and support the Kingdom's ambitious digitization goals under Vision 2030, accelerating its evolution into a technology-driven economy.
'Our partnership with Cisco highlights the Kingdom's commitment to accelerating its digital economy through innovation. These initiatives will enhance Saudi Arabia's competitiveness both regionally and internationally by promoting innovation and the adoption of AI and cloud computing technologies.' said Vice Minister at the Saudi Ministry of Communications and IT Haytham Alohali.
'Cisco is proud to partner with the Kingdom to accelerate its Vision 2030,' said Cisco Chair and CEO Chuck Robbins. 'Through our investments and innovation, we are protecting organizations, preparing the Saudi workforce for the AI era, and contributing to the local economy and manufacturing ecosystem. Together, we will pave the way for a more connected and secure future.'
'By aligning with key initiatives of Vision 2030, Cisco is committed to being a catalyst for digital transformation across various sectors in the Kingdom. As these projects advance, they will help strengthen digital infrastructure and drive economic growth to positively shape Saudi Arabia's future,' said Salman Faqeeh, managing director, Cisco Saudi Arabia.
Delivering on its commitment, Cisco announced that its data centers for cloud security services as well as the Webex Collaboration Platform are now operational.
The security data center underpins Cisco's cloud-based security services including its new secure service edge solution, Cisco Secure Access and Umbrella DNS. The center helps customers protect their users, infrastructure, and investments against threat actors and empowers them with flexible security services and data protection for devices, remote users, and distributed locations.
The collaboration data centers bring extensive services from the Webex suite such as meetings and calling closer to customers in the Kingdom and region.
Cisco will continue to advance AI and digital skills across the region as part of its Country Digital Acceleration program, aligning with the goals of the Saudi Research and Development National Strategy. In collaboration with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, the company will invest in additional Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certifications, one of the industry's most widely recognized and respected certifications, to enhance the Kingdom's talent pool of highly skilled local IT professionals that can support complex networking infrastructures in the AI era.
Initially launched in the Kingdom in 2016, Cisco's CDA program supports digitization efforts across key industries, fostering digital skills and developing the innovation ecosystem in the country. To date, the program has implemented more than 20 projects of national impact across vital sectors.
With a regional head office in Riyadh, Cisco intends to build on its long-standing partnerships in the Kingdom by initiating a manufacturing base, with groundwork beginning in 2025. The initial phase will focus on fulfillment operations for wireless technologies to meet local demand, with the intent to scale up in response to evolving market needs.
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'Mall expansion goes hand-in-hand with pro-investment reforms — for example, Saudi Arabia now allows 100 percent foreign ownership in the retail sector, encouraging international companies and developers to invest directly,' added Cointet. The Arthur D. Little official further stated that the expansion of shopping malls in the Kingdom will also provide local brands with unprecedented opportunities to establish a national and international footprint. 'This is critical for developing the Saudi economy and I anticipate we will see more Saudi-owned brands enter the world stage in the coming years,' added Cointet. Potential challenges The experts also highlighted some of the challenges in Saudi Arabia's retail landscape, particularly surrounding shopping malls, including oversupply. 'Whilst there's certainly a risk of oversupply with many large projects due to be delivered over the course of the next two to three years, the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to changing consumer trends will be crucial for the sustainability of shopping malls in the Kingdom,' said Spary. The CBRE official further said that new attractions, entertainment options, and cultural elements will play a pivotal role in reshaping the retail landscape in the market. Spary added that the integration of these features will create a more engaging and immersive experience for consumers, ultimately redefining how shopping is perceived and enjoyed in the Kingdom. Cointet expressed a slightly different view, stating that the demand for malls in Saudi Arabia is expected to rise in the coming years due to population growth. 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