Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, and Saudi Arabia is increasingly becoming a major player in this field.
According to the 2023 Artificial Intelligence Index Report by Stanford University, Saudi Arabia ranks second globally for societal awareness of artificial intelligence, after China.
The study provides important insights for policymakers, researchers and industry professionals to better understand the current situation regarding artificial intelligence and possible future trends.
The report suggests a high rate of confidence among Saudi citizens when dealing with AI products and services.
This is a positive development, as AI has the potential to transform many areas of society, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and more.
Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in this area in recent years, with a growing number of initiatives aimed at promoting the use of AI and other emerging technologies.
One of the key areas covered in the report is the extent of “society’s knowledge of the benefits and value of AI products and services.”
Saudi Arabia ranked joint first with China on a question about the “positive impact of AI products and services on the lives of respondents in the survey during the next three to five years.”
This shows that Saudi citizens are aware of the potential benefits that AI can bring to their lives, and are optimistic about its future prospects.
Saudi Arabia also ranked second on the question of “whether AI products and services will make the lives of the respondents in the survey easier.”
This indicates that people in Saudi Arabia believe that AI can help simplify their lives and make it easier to access various services.
The report also highlights Saudi Arabia’s keen interest in artificial intelligence. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has spoken about the importance of AI and other emerging technologies on several occasions.
At the G20 Summit in Osaka in 2019, he said: “We live in a time of scientific innovations, unprecedented technologies and unlimited growth prospects.
If used optimally, these new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the internet of things, can avoid many harms and bring huge benefits.”
Saudi Arabia has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting the use of AI and other emerging technologies.
In 2019, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) was established to develop and implement national policies and initiatives in this area.
The authority is responsible for overseeing the development of the National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence, which aims to make Saudi Arabia a global leader in the use of AI.
The National Transformation Program 2020 also includes several initiatives aimed at promoting the use of AI in various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and transportation.
The Saudi Vision 2030 also emphasises the importance of AI and other emerging technologies in driving economic growth and development in the country.