The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has initiated a series of projects aimed at strengthening the nation’s data center infrastructure.
SDAIA Launches Major Projects For Saudi Arabia’s Data Centre Infrastructure
SDAIA President Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi announced several technical infrastructure expansion projects and new data centers in Riyadh. Dr. Essam Al-Waqit, Director of the National Information Center, and other SDAIA leaders and officials attended the launch event.
These projects, the first of their kind in Saudi Arabia, were unveiled at an event attended by the Director of the National Information Center Dr. Essam Al-Waqit, and other SDAIA leaders and officials.
According to a press release, the new data centers boast an electrical capacity of up to 65 kilowatts per cabin and are equipped with highly efficient electrical and mechanical systems. However, the exact number of new data centres and the total new capacity being developed as part of these projects have not yet been disclosed.
The projects aim to enhance the capacity and operational efficiency of data centers across the Kingdom. These projects are part of SDAIA’s broader strategy to develop sustainable data centers that comply with the best global practices and standards set by the UPTIME Institute, the leading authority on data center evaluation and classification.
Saudi Arabia’s Rapid Growth in the Data Centre Market
Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing data center markets in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). According to Mordor Intelligence, the Saudi Arabia Data Center Market size is estimated at 345.31 MW in 2024 and is expected to reach 854.81 MW by 2029. This means it is growing at a CAGR of 19.88% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
Currently, the Kingdom has nearly two dozen data centers operated by major global and regional players such as Gulf Data Hub (GDH), GO Datacenter (Etihad Atheeb Telecom), NourNET, Mobily, and others.
In 2023, technology giants like Oracle, Google, Microsoft, and Huawei made substantial investments in Saudi Arabia. The government’s digital push drives this growth through Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious plan for economic diversification. The plan aims to attract foreign investment, develop high-tech modern infrastructure in exclusive business and leisure zones, and build futuristic cities such as NEOM. Additionally, the Kingdom’s Cloud First policy supports this growth.
Final Words
SDAIA recently started a project focusing on expanding a large-scale data center in Riyadh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which AI Company is in Saudi Arabia
SDAIA is in Saudi Arabia.
What does SDAIA Do?
SDAIA leads the national strategy for data and artificial intelligence, aiming to position the Kingdom as a global leader in data-driven economies.
Who is the Head of SDAIA?
Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi is the Head of SDAIA.
What is a Data Management Office?
A data management office is a department or team within an organization tasked with overseeing and implementing data management practices.
What is Saudi Arabia’s Open Data Strategy?
The KSA Open Data Strategy aims to provide high-value, reusable open data for the nation to increase transparency and foster innovation through collaboration,
What is another Name for Data Management?
Another name for data management is information management or knowledge management.
Are there Blocked Apps in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, there are blocked apps in Saudi Arabia.
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