Saudi Arabia launches AI readiness index to accelerate government tech transformation
The National Artificial Intelligence Index, inaugurated by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, is designed to assess the maturity of AI implementation across government entities.
More than 180 representatives participated in the first measurement cycle, which also aims to provide tailored recommendations and track progress regularly, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The initiative supports broader government targets, including ranking among the top 15 countries globally in AI, top 10 in the Open Data Index, and top 20 in data and AI-related publications under the National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence.
AI is projected to contribute $235.2 billion, or 12.4 percent, to Saudi Arabia's gross domestic product by 2030, according to estimates by PwC.
'The index aims to unify government efforts and national priorities in the field of AI and provide the enabling capabilities to enable government agencies to adopt and develop effective and sustainable AI products and solutions that contribute to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030,' SPA said.
It added: 'The index is based on three main pillars, seven main axes, and 23 sub-fields to ensure a comprehensive measurement of government agencies' AI readiness.'
This forms part of SDAIA's broader mandate as the Kingdom's national authority for data and AI development and regulation. It is intended to strengthen institutional performance and drive public-sector innovation.
The newly launched index also provides results reflecting the maturity of AI adoption within government agencies, along with the necessary support to enhance their capabilities and further develop innovative solutions that sustain national efforts and expand their impact in priority sectors.
As part of its continuous efforts to improve institutional excellence, SDAIA was recently awarded two international accreditation certificates by the Global Excellence Assembly, a body that specializes in developing and evaluating institutional excellence models.
The recognition highlights SDAIA's alignment with international best practices in the design and governance of award models, as well as the transparency and impartiality of its evaluation and selection processes.
SDAIA is also engaging the public to shape the future of digital services. The authority earlier this month launched an electronic consultation to gather public opinion on the Ehsan National Platform for Charitable Work, inviting citizens and residents to share their views on which service is most in need of improvement.
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