Saudi Arabia has formally designated 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence, following a Council of Ministers decision at a March 2026 Cabinet session chaired by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The designation marks a nationwide push to build a data-driven economy.
The initiative is being implemented across the country by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) through an official Year of AI program with dedicated guidelines. It falls under the National Strategy for Data and AI, which targets around 75 billion SAR in data and AI investments and the launch of hundreds of AI-focused startups.
Infrastructure and skills
A core project highlighted for 2026 is the Hexagon government data center in الرياض, with a power capacity of around 480 MW, supporting high-performance computing and national data storage. The wider ecosystem also includes a National Data Bank that integrates more than one hundred government datasets, and the Deem Government Cloud, which hosts well over one hundred government data centers serving dozens of entities.
On the human side, goals linked to the strategy include training tens of thousands of specialists in data and AI, alongside large-scale outreach programs designed to reach broad segments of the population. The guidelines set out to unify national efforts around AI awareness and education, and to promote high-impact initiatives across government, the private sector, and society.
For residents and businesses, the designation signals stronger investment in digital skills and services under رؤية السعودية 2030. As of now, no distinct fee schedule, permit type, or electronic service branded specifically for the Year of AI has been detailed, and any AI-related activity using standard platforms such as أبشر or ناجز appears to follow their usual procedures. Inquiries about the initiative are directed to a dedicated SDAIA email contact.
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
Up Next
Saudi Manufacturing Output Rises 1.3% in July
Saudi manufacturing activity rose 1.3% month-on-month in July 2026, led by refined petroleum products, even as overall industrial output fell year-on-year.
Sep 11,2026
Saudi Arabia Launches Youth Development Strategy to 2030
Saudi Arabia's Human Resources Ministry unveils a Youth Development Strategy running to 2030, targeting Saudis aged 15–34 through five pillars and dozens of projects.
Sep 11,2026
Saudi GDP Grew 3.0% in Q1 2026, Data Confirms
Saudi Arabia's real GDP rose 3.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, driven by oil, non-oil and government activities, before a Q2 oil-sector decline.
Sep 11,2026
Saudi Cities Plan Family Heritage Festivals in 2026
Saudi Arabia expands community cultural festivals in 2026, including heritage events in Diriyah, Misk City, and Qassim, with family entertainment and folk arts.
Sep 11,2026Related Stories
Don't Miss Similar Listings
Be the first to know when new stories on this topic are published.
