Saudi AI Adoption Surges to 45.2% in 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) tool adoption in Saudi Arabia has surged to 45.2% of internet users, more than double the rate recorded the previous year, according to the fifth edition of the “Saudi Internet” report released by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). The sharp increase coincides with the Kingdom’s launch of “Artificial Intelligence Year 2026,” a national initiative designed to accelerate AI integration across public and private sectors. The report, based on official Saudi data, underscores the rapid digital transformation underway in the Kingdom and reflects the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Context and Background

The “Saudi Internet” report, published annually by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), serves as a key benchmark for digital adoption in the Kingdom. Its fifth edition highlights the growing embrace of AI tools among Saudi internet users, with usage rates climbing from approximately 22% in the previous year to 45.2% in 2025. This leap signals a fundamental shift in how Saudis interact with technology, driven by government initiatives, private sector innovation, and a young, tech-savvy population.

The surge aligns with the Kingdom’s broader digital strategy, which includes substantial investments in AI research, infrastructure, and education. Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a regional leader in technology, launching several initiatives to foster AI innovation, such as the National Strategy for Data and AI and the establishment of dedicated AI authorities. These efforts are part of the Vision 2030 framework, which seeks to diversify the economy and create a knowledge-based society.

Key Details

The report reveals significant demographic variations in AI adoption. Women lead with a usage rate of 52.8%, compared to 39.4% among men. By age group, the 20-29 bracket shows the highest adoption at 55.7%, followed closely by the 10-19 age group at 53.4%. Usage declines with age, dropping to 27.4% among those aged 50-59 and 14.8% among those aged 60-74.

Regionally, Tabuk leads with an AI tool usage rate of 58.5%, followed by the Eastern Region at 53.8%. The lowest rate is recorded in the Jazan region at 30.7%, indicating potential areas for targeted digital inclusion programs.

In terms of applications, information search is the most common use at 80.8%, followed by idea generation (40.1%) and education/study (37.7%). Image, video, and presentation creation account for 25.7% of usage, while language translation stands at 25.1%, and work-related tasks at 17.3%. The most downloaded AI applications in Saudi Arabia are ChatGPT, Google Gemini, DeepSeek, and the national platform HUMAIN.

The report also notes a reduction in the digital divide among older adults. Internet penetration among those aged 60-74 increased from 88.9% in 2024 to 92.8% in 2025, a rise of 3.9 percentage points in one year. This progress reflects ongoing efforts to ensure digital inclusion for all segments of society.

International Impact

Saudi Arabia’s rapid AI adoption has implications beyond its borders. The Kingdom ranked first globally in the 2025 Digital Readiness Index published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), reinforcing its position as a leader in digital transformation regionally and globally. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of Saudi policies in fostering an enabling environment for technology adoption and innovation.

The growth in AI usage is expected to enhance productivity, drive economic diversification, and attract foreign investment. It also supports the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a hub for AI and emerging technologies, attracting global talent and partnerships. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in digital infrastructure and skills development, its experience could serve as a model for other nations seeking to harness AI for sustainable development.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The surge in AI adoption is a direct reflection of Saudi Vision 2030’s goals to build a diversified, knowledge-based economy and improve quality of life through technology. By empowering citizens with AI tools, the Kingdom is not only advancing its digital agenda but also preparing its workforce for the jobs of the future. The focus on digital inclusion, as evidenced by increased internet penetration among older adults, ensures that the benefits of technology are shared across society. As Saudi Arabia celebrates “Artificial Intelligence Year 2026,” it reaffirms its commitment to leading the global AI revolution and shaping a prosperous, sustainable future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the current AI adoption rate in Saudi Arabia?

A1. According to the fifth “Saudi Internet” report by the CST, AI tool adoption among internet users in Saudi Arabia has reached 45.2%, more than double the previous year’s rate.

Q2. Which organization published the report on AI adoption?

A2. The report was published by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), a Saudi government authority responsible for regulating and developing the communications and technology sectors.

Q3. What is “Artificial Intelligence Year 2026”?

A3. It is a national initiative launched by Saudi Arabia to promote AI integration, innovation, and awareness across various sectors, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Q4. How does AI adoption differ between men and women in Saudi Arabia?

A4. Women show a higher adoption rate at 52.8%, compared to 39.4% for men, indicating strong engagement among female users with AI tools.

Q5. Which age group has the highest AI adoption rate?

A5. The 20-29 age group leads with 55.7%, followed by the 10-19 age group at 53.4%, showing that younger Saudis are quick to embrace AI technologies.

Q6. Which region in Saudi Arabia has the highest AI usage?

A6. The Tabuk region leads with 58.5% adoption, followed by the Eastern Region at 53.8%, reflecting regional variations in digital engagement.

Q7. What is the most common use of AI tools in Saudi Arabia?

A7. Information search is the top use at 80.8%, followed by idea generation (40.1%) and education/study (37.7%), demonstrating diverse applications.

Q8. Which AI applications are most downloaded in Saudi Arabia?

A8. ChatGPT ranks first, followed by Google Gemini, DeepSeek, and the national platform HUMAIN, indicating a mix of global and local AI solutions.

Q9. How has internet penetration among older adults changed?

A9. Internet penetration among those aged 60-74 increased from 88.9% in 2024 to 92.8% in 2025, a rise of 3.9 percentage points, reducing the digital divide.

Q10. What is the significance of Saudi Arabia’s ranking in the Digital Readiness Index?

A10. Saudi Arabia ranked first globally in the 2025 Digital Readiness Index by the ITU, showcasing its leadership in digital transformation and technology adoption.

Q11. How does AI adoption support Vision 2030?

A11. It advances economic diversification, enhances productivity, and prepares the workforce for future jobs, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of a knowledge-based economy.

Q12. What is the CST’s role in AI development?

A12. The CST regulates and promotes the communications and technology sector, publishes reports like “Saudi Internet,” and supports initiatives that foster AI adoption and innovation.

Q13. Which AI application is developed nationally in Saudi Arabia?

A13. HUMAIN is a national AI platform listed among the most downloaded apps, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to local innovation in AI.

Q14. What percentage of AI usage is for work-related tasks?

A14. Work-related tasks account for 17.3% of AI usage, indicating growing professional applications alongside personal and educational uses.

Q15. How does AI adoption vary by age in Saudi Arabia?

A15. Adoption declines with age: 55.7% for ages 20-29, 53.4% for 10-19, down to 27.4% for 50-59 and 14.8% for 60-74, showing a generational gap.

Q16. What percentage of AI usage is for translation?

A16. Language translation accounts for 25.1% of AI usage, highlighting its role in overcoming language barriers and facilitating communication.

Q17. What are the implications of increased AI adoption for Saudi economy?

A17. It can boost productivity, attract investment, and drive innovation, supporting economic diversification and the creation of high-skilled jobs in the Kingdom.

Q18. How does Saudi Arabia compare globally in AI readiness?

A18. Saudi Arabia ranks first in the ITU’s 2025 Digital Readiness Index, demonstrating its strong infrastructure, policies, and commitment to digital transformation.

Q19. What measures are reducing the digital divide in Saudi Arabia?

A19. Government efforts include expanding internet access, digital literacy programs, and initiatives targeting older adults, as seen in the increased penetration among the 60-74 age group.

Q20. What is the expected future trend for AI adoption in Saudi Arabia?

A20. With ongoing government support, technological advancements, and a young population, AI adoption is likely to continue rising, further embedding AI in daily life and the economy.

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