Saudi Arabia is ranked among the top ten countries globally for private investment in artificial intelligence, according to the World Bank Group’s 2026 World Development Report titled “The Promise of AI”.
SPA reported that the report identifies the Kingdom as an attractive destination for AI talent and a model for the integration of government data.
The document serves as the World Bank’s first comprehensive assessment of how artificial intelligence impacts developing economies. It examines opportunities for governments, businesses, and individuals, while outlining requirements to manage risks and maximize development effects.
The analysis focuses on three main areas: decision-support and experience capabilities, the concentration of data centers, chips, and advanced models within a few companies and nations, and supporting factors including skills, data, infrastructure, and institutions.
The report suggests a phased approach starting with the adoption of existing tools, followed by adaptation to local needs, languages, and data, and concluding with the development of advanced technologies and structures.
How does the World Bank 2026 report view Saudi Arabia’s position in AI? The World Bank Group’s report, titled “The Promise of AI”, places Saudi Arabia among the ten largest countries in the world regarding private investments in artificial intelligence. Additionally, the report highlights the Kingdom as a model for integrating government data and as an attractive location for attracting talent in the AI field.
What is the primary purpose of the World Bank’s AI assessment? The report is the first comprehensive evaluation by the World Bank regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on developing economies. It explores the opportunities available to governments, businesses, and individuals, while also detailing the requirements needed to manage risks and maximize the effect of AI on development.
What are the three main directions analyzed in the AI report? The report focuses on the capabilities AI provides for decision-making and access to experience, the concentration of data centers, chips, and advanced models in a limited number of companies and countries, and complementary factors such as institutions, skills, data, and infrastructure.