Engineer Haitham Al-Ohailey, Governor of the Communications and Space Technology Authority, announced that the digital economy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reached a size of $139 billion, which represents about 15% of the gross domestic product. These figures reflect the qualitative transformations initiated by the Kingdom's Vision 2030, where the country has witnessed notable progress in several areas, including internet speed and the spread of digital networks.
Al-Ohailey pointed out that mobile internet speed in the Kingdom has increased from 9.2 Mbps in 2017 to over 214 Mbps today, placing the Kingdom among the top 10 countries globally in this index. Additionally, the internet penetration rate has jumped from 68% to nearly 100%, reflecting the efforts made to improve digital infrastructure.
Event Details
Al-Ohailey's statements came during his participation in the International Telecommunication Union's Council session for 2026, held in Geneva, Switzerland, alongside the Kingdom's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Abdul Mohsen bin Khuthaila. He confirmed that the Kingdom has made significant progress in regulatory frameworks and policies, achieving the top global rank in the digital readiness index.
He also noted that women's participation in the tech sector has risen from 7% to 35%, the highest rate in the Middle East and North Africa, surpassing the averages of the G20 and the European Union. These achievements reflect the Kingdom's commitment to achieving inclusivity in the fields of technology and communications.
Background & Context
Vision 2030 is an ambitious strategic plan aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy and reducing its dependence on oil. By enhancing the digital economy, the Kingdom seeks to create new job opportunities and stimulate innovation across various sectors. Digital transformations are a fundamental part of the Kingdom's efforts to achieve sustainable development.
In this context, a roadmap was announced to connect humanity and enhance inclusivity, particularly in developing countries. A global economic model study was also launched to support the sustainability of digital infrastructure, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to international cooperation in this field.
Impact & Consequences
The impacts of these digital transformations extend beyond the Kingdom's borders, contributing to bridging the digital divide globally. The Kingdom has worked with the International Telecommunication Union to train over 1,500 specialists from 190 countries through the Digital Regulatory Academy, enhancing the capabilities of developing nations in technology.
The Kingdom has also launched an initiative to empower women leaders, contributing to the training of over 300 women from member states, reflecting its commitment to enhancing women's roles in technology and communications.
Regional Significance
These achievements serve as a model for the Arab region, inspiring other countries to adopt similar strategies in digital transformation. Strengthening the digital economy in the Kingdom can contribute to achieving sustainable development in neighboring countries, enhancing regional cooperation.
In conclusion, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to enhance the digital economy, opening new horizons for growth and development across various sectors, and reflecting its commitment to achieving the goals of Vision 2030.