12/03/2025

Minister of Communications Congratulates the Leadership on the Announcement of the 2026 Budget and Thanks the Leadership for Its Support in Advancing Technology and AI

H.E. Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, extended his congratulations and best wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister — may God protect them — on the occasion of the announcement of the State Budget for the fiscal year 1447–1448H (2026). He affirmed that the budget reflects the continued and significant support provided by the leadership for the nation’s development journey and reinforces the Kingdom’s direction toward an innovation-driven and AI-powered economy.

His Excellency explained that the digital economy and innovation ecosystem achieved outstanding results in 2025 as a result of the wise guidance and continuous support of the leadership. Estimates indicate that the ICT market grew to reach 190 billion SAR, with an annual growth rate exceeding 5%. The Kingdom also strengthened its leading position by capturing 50% of the region’s unicorn companies with a total of eight unicorns. Employment in the sector grew by 3%, bringing the total digital workforce to more than 390,000. Additionally, Saudi Arabia ranked first globally in the ICT Development Index (IDI), and the number of technology companies listed on the stock market rose to 25.

His Excellency noted that the leadership’s support accelerated innovation in advanced and emerging technologies, including the development of more than 13 deep-tech capabilities and the attraction of 37 global companies specializing in research and development and semiconductors. He also highlighted the launch of the first national marketplace for satellite data and imagery through the Earth Observation (EO) platform, which enhances the nation’s readiness in data and artificial intelligence.

He concluded by praying to God Almighty to protect the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, and to perpetuate prosperity, growth, and stability for the nation. He emphasized that the achievements realized constitute a solid foundation for continuing the growth journey and strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading destination for advanced technologies and artificial intelligence, in support of the leadership’s aspirations and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.