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Saudi Gazette
20-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia ranks second among G20 in the ICT Regulatory Tracker Index
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Arabia achieved an exceptional accomplishment by securing second place among the G20 countries in the ICT Regulatory Tracker index issued by the UN International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for 2024. The achievement confirms Saudi Arabia's remarkable progress in telecommunications and technology regulations, enhancing regulatory innovation, building cutting-edge digital infrastructure, and implementing effective market oversight mechanisms. It also demonstrates Saudi Arabia's dedication to providing an attractive regulatory environment that stimulates investment and accelerates digital economic growth, solidifying its position as a global regulatory leader. The index aims to support decision-makers and regulatory entities in keeping pace with developments in the vital sector, as it measures the maturity of ICT regulatory frameworks across 194 countries. It is based on 50 criteria divided into four main pillars: regulatory authority, regulatory mandates, regulatory regime, and competition framework. The achievement extends Saudi Arabia's series of international successes in the telecom and technology sector, as it continues to enhance its global position by achieving the highest classifications and advanced rankings. Saudi Arabia maintained second place among G20 countries in the ICT Development Index for two consecutive years, and it achieved second place among the G20 countries in the United Nations' Telecommunications Infrastructure Index (TII).
Leaders
20-05-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Ranks 2nd Among G20 in ITU's ICT Regulatory Tracker Index
Saudi Arabia has achieved a significant milestone by ranking second among G20 countries in the 2024 ICT Regulatory Tracker issued by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the United Nations. This accomplishment reflects the Kingdom's substantial progress in the field of telecommunications and digital regulation. It highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to regulatory innovation, the development of advanced digital infrastructure, and the implementation of effective market oversight. The result also underscores the Kingdom's dedication to fostering a regulatory environment that attracts investment and drives digital economic growth, reinforcing its standing as a global leader in regulatory excellence. The ICT Regulatory Tracker is designed to support policymakers and regulators in navigating the rapidly evolving ICT sector. It evaluates the maturity of ICT regulatory frameworks in 194 countries, using 50 indicators grouped into four key pillars: regulatory authority, regulatory mandates, regulatory regime, and competition framework. This recognition adds to a growing list of international achievements by Saudi Arabia in the telecom and technology sectors. The Kingdom has consistently maintained top-tier rankings, including second place among G20 nations in both the ICT Development Index for two consecutive years and the UN's Telecommunications Infrastructure Index (TII). Related Topics : Saudi Finance Minister Leads Delegation at G20 FMCBG Meeting in South Africa Saudi Arabia Participates at G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting in Brazil 3.9 BILLION PEOPLE ARE USING THE INTERNET Eastern Region Waterfronts: Top Ramadan Spots Offering Serene Spiritual Experience Short link : Post Views: 1 Related Stories
Business Recorder
23-04-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Path to inclusive growth and innovation
In a rapidly digitizing world, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged as transformative force, behind regional and global progress by fostering innovation, connectivity, and efficiency across various sectors. The growing importance of digital technologies and the emergence of the digital economy in the advancement of societies and economies has been broadly acknowledged. From the industrial revolution to the digital age, technology has consistently propelled social change (Nawaz, H., 2023). The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals emphasize the role of (ICT) in realizing universal identification, promoting efficient governance and enhancing financial inclusion, Likewise, a body of literature supports the idea that digital adoption influences economic growth (Arendt, 2015; Eberhard et al., 2015), efficiency (Bygstad & Hanseth, 2019), and job creation (Chege et al., 2020), healthcare opportunities (Haluza, D., & Jungwirth, D., 2015), social inclusion (UN, 2012), and enhances individuals' capacity, mobility, accessibility, and affordability (Yang, Y., et al., 2013). In fact, advancements in digital adoption have influenced all facets of human life (Mitrovic, Z., et al., 2013). For developing nations, such as Pakistan, digital adoption, literacy, transformation and integration are indispensable for bridging the socioeconomic disparities, creating job opportunities for youth, and enhancing inclusive growth and development. With its transformative potential, ICT remains a key pillar in building a more connected, knowledgeable, and progressive Pakistan. However, despite its vast potential, in Pakistan, ICT adoption remains uneven across different segments of society. Our upcoming paper for the 38th AGM and Conference of PSDE, revels that in Pakistan, digital literacy remains alarmingly low at just 4.2%, digital usage is comparatively better at 20.1%, but not satisfactory and a majority 93% of individuals have not experienced ICT transformation. Additionally, the findings reveal gender divides in digital adoption, with male outperforming female in all matrices; with 27% of men use digital tools compared to 14% of women. Men also lead in digital literacy (4.3% vs. 2.3%) and transformation (10.1% vs. 3.4%). Region-wise, marginalized areas like Baluchistan and underprivileged communities experiencing lower ICT adoption rates Consequently, ICT Development Index (ITC 2017) ranked Pakistan at 148 out of 175 countries in the - the lowest among South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries. On the Digital Evolution Index, Pakistan was ranked 56th out of 60 countries. Furthermore, the state of internet accessibility in Pakistan is well below international standards and considerably lower than other regional countries. Pakistan has been ranked 90th out of 120 countries on the inclusive internet index. Our study reveals that in Pakistan's ICT adaptation, literacy and transformation is shaped by demographic characteristics, socio-economic factors, and infrastructural access. Education is the key determinant, with higher educational level increasing the probability of ICT usage and literacy and literacy. Gender divide persist, as males are more likely to adopt ICT. Age is another important factor, with younger individual exhibiting greater ICT adoption compared to older age groups. On the socio-economic front, higher household earnings enhance ICT usage and literacy by enabling access to technology, although remittances do not show a significant effect on digital skill development. Access to ICT and internet at home significantly boosts all three aspects of ICT adoption, creating conducive environments for skill-building and digital engagement. Moreover, individuals living in urban areas and big cities benefit from better infrastructure, connectivity, and competitive environments, which collectively promote ICT transformation. On the supply side, ICT infrastructure at the stratum level plays a significant role in driving ICT adoption. Given the poor performance in ICT adaptation, literacy, and transformation, and the growing youth population, there is significant potential for positive change, and the good news is that the government is committed to harnessing the digital change, through the 5 Es framework, with a focus on the second pillar—E-Pakistan. The objective is to drive Pakistan into the digital era by ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, and high-quality ICT services. The focus this initiative is on: Digital Infrastructure, which seeks to provide high-speed internet nationwide, especially in rural and underserved areas; Digital Skills, through initiatives like the DigiSkills programme to boost digital literacy and enhance employment opportunities; Digital Governance, aiming to streamline government services via e-governance platforms; Digital Innovation, fostering a culture of innovation to support startups and research and development; and Digital Inclusion, ensuring that marginalized groups, including women and people with disabilities, are not left behind in the digital revolution. These efforts demonstrate the government's seriousness in addressing ICT barriers and creating new opportunities for all citizens, especially the youth, by unlocking the vast potential of the digital economy. Additionally, Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) is leading the national conversation in this regard. Its upcoming 38thAnnual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference on 'URAAN Pakistan' is bringing together policymakers, researchers, and development experts to explore solutions to pressing challenges, with a particular focus on economic growth and the integration of technology in various sectors of Pakistan. To sum up, digital adaptation is no longer a choice but it is a necessity for Pakistan's future. If we are to create an inclusive, resilient, and competitive Pakistan, we must treat digital access as a fundamental right. The path forward lies in synergizing research insights, grassroots realities, and policy ambition. The Five-Es initiative is a bold start. Now is the time to operationalize it with urgency, equity, and evidence-based planning. (The writer is a Research Associate at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE). He can be reached via Email: [email protected]) Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Leaders
15-04-2025
- Business
- Leaders
CST Launches Public Consultation on Global AI Hub Law
The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) has opened a public consultation on the proposed Global AI Hub Law, inviting input from stakeholders worldwide. This initiative aims to establish a forward-looking legal and regulatory framework that attracts high-quality investments in technology—particularly in artificial intelligence and data centers. According to a CST press release, the law is designed to reinforce Saudi Arabia's position as a global digital hub and a leading force in the international digital economy. It promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and research in advanced technologies, while also enabling the development of sovereign data centers to ensure service continuity and cross-border data sovereignty. The law also supports investment in data and AI services to stimulate market growth and strengthen sustainable digital infrastructure. Proposal Outlines 3 Advanced Hosting Models: Private Center : Designed to host international data and services within the Kingdom. : Designed to host international data and services within the Kingdom. Extended Center Virtual Center: Both aimed at attracting major AI and cloud computing companies to serve global clients from within Saudi Arabia, offering varying levels of sovereignty and privileges. The law aligns with international agreements and global best practices. CST encourages feedback from government bodies, private sector entities, investors, and the general public. Contributions can be submitted from April 14 to May 14, 2025, via the official consultation portal: G20 The release also highlights Saudi Arabia's advanced digital infrastructure, ranking second among G20 nations in the 2024 ICT Development Index by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Finally, the Kingdom's telecom and tech markets reached SAR 166 billion in 2023, marking it as the largest and fastest-growing in the MENA region and a global leader in technology adoption and development. Related Topics : KACST Grants 2 Licenses for Modular Construction, Carbon Nanotube Commercialization CST Engages in MWC Barcelona 2025 OIC Denounces Israeli Airstrike on Gaza Hospital, Cites Risk of Humanitarian Crisis SDAIA Releases Guidelines,Tool for Assessing Cross-Border Data Transfer Risks Short link : Post Views: 11
