Saudi Arabia is already making strides in AI technology, says Abdullah Al-Swaha
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is making strides in AI technology, said Abdullah Al-Swaha, the minister of communications and information technology, during the ministry's flagship conference LEAP.
Responding to a question from Arab News, Al-Swaha told the press about his vision for the future of artificial intelligence in the Kingdom in the next five years, highlighting some of the country's most notable achievements so far.
He spoke about the decision-making AI platform provider Intelmatix which he called 'the No. 1 startup in the region, (with) $20 million of funding.'
Al-Swaha also highlighted the Saudi startup NanoPalm, which aims to tackle sickle cell disease by using nanoparticles, and Fathom.io, a platform that enables organizations to accelerate decision-making.
'When it comes to autonomous AI, we have Dr. Khaliel doing the first fully robotic heart transplant,' he said, referring to King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center's Dr. Feras Khaliel who, in 2024, used robotic technology to replace the heart of a 16-year-old.
'So, we are making strides and rest assured we are committed, with royal guidance and support and in partnership with all of the global innovators, and the Kingdom will continue to be the hub for generative AI, GenTech, and autonomous AI, powered by talent and technology.'
He also noted his admiration for the leadership skills of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, adding: 'I have the humble pleasure of learning from him; have the ability to anticipate market transitions; and be able to decisively allocate resources and have a wonderful opportunity to zoom in and zoom out. These are the three traits that I am learning from our royal highness.
'When we first pitched to him all of our ambitions in artificial intelligence, he said it's not only about hardware, but it's about applications and services.
'It's not about models, as some of them might be commoditized; it is about the diffusion of these technologies across industries.'
He added: 'Fast forward to today, and the DeepSeek moment, the ChatGPT moment, have shown us that it is hardware and software, applications and adoption, and the Kingdom is already making strides in generative AI, GenTech AI, and autonomous AI.'
Boasting the theme 'Into New Worlds,' LEAP 2025 aims to expand business networking and investment opportunities in the tech sector.
The event, which runs until Feb. 12 in Riyadh, plays a critical role in Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a global technology hub, aligning with its Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy. As part of this initiative, the Kingdom has pledged $100 billion toward advancing its technology sector.
LEAP 2025 is co-organized by Tahaluf and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in partnership with Informa PLC, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and the Events Investment Fund.
This year's LEAP is expected to host more than 680 tech startups, 1,100 speakers, 1,800 technology brands, and over 170,000 visitors.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Leaders
6 hours ago
- Leaders
AI-Powered Baseer Platform: Cutting-Edge Technology for Efficient Hajj Crowd Management
The Baseer platform has emerged as a sophisticated, AI-driven system that diligently monitors every moment within the two holy mosques. More than a technological solution, it acts as a dynamic, living presence—supporting pilgrims in their religious rituals with peace and reverence while safeguarding their well-being. Additionally, it stands as a testament to a national vision rooted in foresight and respect for human dignity. SDAIA Developed by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, Baseer represents the Kingdom's broader mission to harness modern technology for the benefit of humanity. The platform also has been instrumental in swiftly locating missing individuals—adults and children alike—reuniting them with their families and significantly reducing search times. This has brought comfort and reassurance to countless pilgrims. Beyond its role in locating missing persons, Baseer plays a critical part in managing crowds within the holy sites. By easing congestion during peak periods and facilitating smooth movement through corridors and courtyards, it allows worshippers to perform their rituals in a calm, safe, and dignified setting—free from overcrowding or disruption. Powered by advanced AI and computer vision technologies, the platform equips authorities with real-time insights to anticipate incidents, allocate resources efficiently, and make informed decisions that prioritize safety and order. Baseer is more than a digital platform; it exemplifies the seamless integration of technology and human-centered service. It enhances the spiritual journey by providing a secure, respectful environment aligned with the sanctity of the place and the sacredness of the time. Finally, through Baseer, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its dedication to delivering a safe, efficient, and spiritually enriching Hajj experience. Related Topics: SFDA, SDAIA Sign MoU to Boost Data, AI Collaboration Saudi Interior Min.: Tourism Companies Deceive Pilgrims, Encourage Hajj Violations Riyadh Global Health Exhibition to Bring Together Int'nal Healthcare Experts Intensive Preparations for Smooth, Safe Hajj Season: Mecca Deputy Governor Short link : Post Views: 1
Saudi Gazette
a day ago
- Saudi Gazette
Al-Falih: Saudi Arabia is keen on supporting Syrian economy's stability
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Minister of Investment Eng. Khalid Al-Falih emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting the stability and development of the Syrian economy. He also underlined the need to serve common interests and enhance regional economic prosperity. Al-Falih made the remarks during a meeting with the Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Dr. Mohammad Nidal Al-Shaar, via videoconference, on Sunday. He emphasized the importance of creating an environment for expanding regional investment partnerships. The ministers discussed prospects for investment cooperation between the two countries and reviewed the promising economic opportunities in the Syrian market. Their meeting addressed potential areas of public-private partnership and ways to enhance qualitative investments in the production and service sectors, contributing to supporting economic development and opening new channels for integration between the two countries.
Saudi Gazette
a day ago
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka celebrates 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Japan
Saudi Gazette report OSAKA — The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan. The two countries established diplomatic relations on June 7, 1955, laying the foundation for a long-term partnership that has evolved over the decades into a multifaceted alliance enhancing cultural exchange and diplomatic cooperation. This partnership has also had a significant economic impact on both nations. In February 2025, Saudi Arabia and Japan signed a memorandum to establish a Strategic Partnership Council. In this context, Saudi Ambassador to Japan and Commissioner General of the Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka Dr. Ghazi Faisal Binzagr said that Saudi-Japanese relations have grown and strengthened over the past 70 years. 'The relations go beyond a mere economic partnership to reflect the depth and diversity of our ties. Today, we build on the strength of the past and harness the momentum of the present to jointly shape a new vision for the future,' the ambassador said. 'With Expo 2025 taking place in Osaka and Saudi Arabia hosting Expo 2030 in Riyadh, our two countries stand at the forefront of global exchange, showcasing the latest innovations and sustainable technologies, and contributing to shaping an inclusive future for all.' The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka hosts hundreds of business events aimed at strengthening trade and investment relations between the Kingdom and Japan. These include presentations led by the Ministries of Investment and Commerce, as well as events highlighting the trade and investment opportunities offered by Saudi Vision 2030. Trade volume between the two countries has grown significantly over the past decade, rising from $33.4 billion to over $41 billion currently. The Saudi Pavilion aims to increase the number of Japanese visitors to the Kingdom, targeting 30,000 annual visitors before Expo 2030 Riyadh. This is part of the comprehensive Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 strategy, which includes more than 80 projects across nine sectors: culture, food and agricultural security, media and entertainment, healthcare, advanced infrastructure, finance and investment, competitive industries, energy, small and medium enterprises, sports, and education. Cultural exchange between the two countries has flourished, highlighted by Saudi Arabia's role in bringing Japanese culture to the Middle East through local manga studios, whose works will be showcased at the Saudi Pavilion in August. The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka offers more than 700 diverse and engaging events, including daily shows and live performing arts. Since the Expo opened in April 2025, it has attracted over 500,000 visitors. On September 23, it is expected to host a variety of events and presentations in celebration of Saudi National Day.
