As for the AI zone, this is in line with Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming an “AI-driven economy.”
As part of its agreement with Amazon Web Services, Saudi Arabian companies and government organizations can access leading models of AI companies to develop Genai applications with security, privacy and responsible AI.
Amazon Q Coding Assistant will also allow organizations to build Genai-powered assistants to answer questions, provide summary, generate content, and build complete tasks based on enterprise data.
According to a tech consultant, “To date, Saudi Arabia has created significant employment opportunities in many areas, but tech seems to be lagging behind. The AI zone should change that along with the tech startup scene.”
Multi-year multi-layer growth plan
According to tech industry sources, the AI zone fits everything Saudi Arabia has launched or has a technology plan in place. Being a complete AI economy is part of a bigger game plan.
This also sets up generational opportunities for Saudi Arabian people and talent to explore external work.
“The Saudi Arabia’s technology sector is accelerating job creation through focused government investment and initiatives that enhance digital R&D and innovation,” said Dr. Raymond Khoury, PhD, Head -Head & Innovation Management Practice, a Middle Eastern Technology & Innovation Management Practice.
Encourages the Saudi Arabian startup scene
Amazon Web Services and Humain are working to “advance” the AI-powered startup sector by “providing access to the broadest and deepest set of cloud technology tools and programs.” (According to Magnit Data, Saudi startups won $750 million in venture capital funding in 2024, which is “the highest share of capital deployed in the Middle East and North Africa last year.”)
“This collaboration to build an AI zone in Saudi Arabia will enable innovation in all industries using AWS’ advanced AI products,” said Matt Garman, CEO of Amazon Web Services.
“Together, we empower our customers with cost-effective and secure cloud technology, fuel innovation and economic growth across the country.”