Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to AI: A Vision for the Future
David Sachs, Senior Advisor at the White House for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Currencies, commended Saudi Arabia’s efforts in establishing an innovative technological ecosystem. He emphasized that the partnership with Saudi Arabia is pivotal for shaping the future of global innovation and artificial intelligence (AI), marking the Kingdom as a vital collaborator for the United States in navigating the forthcoming era of intelligence.
Sachs expressed these sentiments during a panel discussion at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh. This event coincided with the visit of U.S. President Donald J. Trump to Saudi Arabia, highlighting the significance of the strategic partnership between the two nations.
The White House advisor conveyed his admiration for Saudi Arabia’s remarkable progress in the technology and entrepreneurship sectors. He recounted his experience visiting the "Garage" incubator, where he engaged with several Saudi founders developing advanced applications in AI, robotics, and computational biology. This interaction underscored the Kingdom’s burgeoning role on the global stage regarding technological advancements.
Sachs highlighted that Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key international player in shaping the future of AI. The Kingdom’s substantial investments in digital infrastructure and its adoption of advanced technologies in critical sectors such as healthcare were particularly noteworthy. He pointed to the applications of AI in genomics and gene therapy for addressing conditions like sickle cell disease, illustrating Saudi Arabia’s ability to leverage technology for sustainable development and public health improvement.
In response, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah bin Amer Al-Sawaha, reiterated that the Kingdom is confidently transitioning from a traditional economy toward a digital economy driven by innovation. He underscored that AI is fundamental to this transformation and a vital element in the strategic relationship with the United States.
Minister Al-Sawaha elaborated on Saudi Arabia’s significant investments in training and building digital capabilities in collaboration with major American corporations such as Google, Apple, and Amazon. These initiatives have led to the development of over 381,000 skilled young professionals in the digital sector, demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equality in areas shaping the future.
Moreover, he asserted that Saudi Arabia is not merely adopting AI technologies; it is actively pursuing their advancement and aims to contribute to the establishment of global regulatory and ethical frameworks. This proactive approach ensures that AI is used responsibly, equitably, and safely throughout the international community.
Concluding the session, Minister Al-Sawaha reinforced that the Saudi-American partnership exemplifies a global model for cooperation in technology, AI, and the digital economy. He expressed the Kingdom’s ambition, as outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, to serve as a global platform for innovation and a primary destination for developing and exporting AI solutions that benefit humanity as a whole.
In summary, the discussions highlighted not only the advancements that Saudi Arabia has made in the technological arena but also the commitment of both nations to fostering a collaborative environment for future innovations. The emphasis on AI as a cornerstone of economic transformation reflects a strategic vision that prioritizes the sustainable and ethical application of technology for the betterment of society. As Saudi Arabia continues to assert itself as a leader in technology and digital innovation, the partnership with the United States is set to pave the way for groundbreaking advancements that will resonate globally.
