The Saudi Ministry of Commerce reported a remarkable growth in company registrations within the artificial intelligence sector in recent years, with projections indicating that registrations will reach 19,600 by the end of 2025. This figure represents a substantial increase of 240% compared to 2021, when there were only 5,762 registrations.
The ministry also noted that AI registrations hit 14,600 in 2024, approximately 10,300 in 2023, and around 7,200 in 2022, showcasing a positive upward trend in this vital sector.
Details of the Announcement
In a move reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to fostering innovation in technology, the Cabinet has declared 2026 as the "Year of Artificial Intelligence." This decision aims to create widespread national momentum around these technologies and their role in shaping a smarter and more sustainable future.
Artificial intelligence is considered one of the leading drivers of the global economy, as developed nations rely on it to boost their economies and improve the quality of life for their citizens. It also contributes to enhancing the efficiency of vital sectors such as health, education, transportation, energy, and security.
Background & Context
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aims to become a global leader in data and artificial intelligence technologies, actively contributing to shaping international decisions related to these technologies through its participation in several influential international organizations and committees. Among its notable achievements is its membership in the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), making it the first Arab country to join this partnership.
These developments coincide with the Ministry of Commerce's release of the business sector statement for the first quarter of 2026, highlighting key developments in the Kingdom's commercial sector. During this period, over 71,000 commercial registrations were issued, raising the total number of active registrations to more than 1.89 million.
Impact & Consequences
This increase in AI registrations reflects significant growth in the targeted sectors of Vision 2030, including e-commerce, virtual reality, and data analytics. The media sector has also seen notable growth, with the number of establishments rising by 10% to over 1.27 million.
Registrations for limited liability companies surpassed 597,000, marking an increase of 138%, while registrations for joint-stock companies exceeded 5,000, reflecting a growth of 40% since 2021.
Regional Significance
These developments are a milestone in the Kingdom's journey towards achieving its ambitious technological goals. They also reflect global trends towards innovation and technology, opening new avenues for other Arab countries to benefit from these experiences.
In conclusion, this growth in AI registrations represents a significant step towards enhancing the Kingdom's position in the global economy and reflects its commitment to innovation and development across various sectors.