Qualcomm Expands AI, Energy Tech Work in Saudi Arabia

Qualcomm has identified major growth opportunities across Saudi Arabia's artificial-intelligence, industrial-technology and energy-efficiency sectors, pointing to areas including sovereign AI data centers, edge AI, industrial Internet of Things, robotics, smart manufacturing and low-power computing.

Among its key plans, Qualcomm and HUMAIN intend to build Saudi AI infrastructure using Qualcomm AI200 and AI250 systems, targeting 200 megawatts of capacity starting in 2026. In parallel, Qualcomm and Aramco are developing edge-AI industrial solutions aimed at predictive maintenance, visual anomaly detection, asset management, worker assistance, safety, productivity and energy efficiency.

The company already operates an engineering center in الرياض and is expanding its Saudi research footprint in AI, semiconductors and advanced computing, signaling deeper long-term investment in the Kingdom's technology base.

Support for local startups

Qualcomm is also backing homegrown innovation through the Design in Saudi Arabia with AI (DISAI) 2026 program, which targets up to 10 Saudi startups working in AI, IoT and wireless technologies. Shortlisted startups receive a participation stipend of 40,000 ريال سعودي and reimbursement of up to 20,000 ريال سعودي for eligible patent applications.

The 2026 application window ran from 9 December 2025 to 10 March 2026, with an incubation phase scheduled from April to November 2026 and a finale set for November or December 2026.

For residents and professionals in the Kingdom, the moves point to expanding opportunities in high-tech jobs, research and entrepreneurship, while supporting the broader push toward a knowledge-based, technology-driven economy.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving