Advancing AI in Saudi Arabia: (SCAI) at the Forefront

Introduction

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI) and technological innovation, thanks in large part to the efforts of the Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI). Established as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), SCAI is spearheading the Kingdom’s mission to become a leader in AI, aligning closely with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.

Foundation and Mission

Launched to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, SCAI aims to diversify the economy and advance technological capabilities. The company’s primary mission is to foster local AI innovation, create homegrown solutions, and establish Saudi Arabia as a competitive hub for advanced technology. The focus is on developing local capabilities in AI, enhancing various sectors, and driving the country’s digital transformation.

Strategic Objectives

SCAI’s strategic objectives are centered around the development of AI applications, fostering partnerships, and investing in infrastructure:

1. Development of AI Applications: The company is dedicated to creating advanced AI solutions addressing global challenges and contributing to a sustainable future. This includes investments in smart city projects, healthcare, education, and business intelligence.
2. Partnerships and Collaborations: SCAI has formed alliances with various organizations, including a notable joint venture with SenseTime Group, which involves establishing an AI lab in Saudi Arabia. This partnership aims to enhance local capabilities in computer vision and deep learning, contributing to the Kingdom’s AI ecosystem.
3. Smart City Projects: SCAI is actively involved in smart city initiatives in Riyadh, leveraging technologies like AI, IoT, and cloud computing to improve urban living standards and service delivery.

Key Initiatives and Partnerships

SCAI has engaged in several significant initiatives and partnerships that underscore its commitment to advancing AI capabilities within Saudi Arabia:

• Joint Venture with SenseTime: In September 2022, SCAI announced a SAR 776 million investment in a joint venture with SenseTime, a leading AI software company. This partnership aims to establish SenseTime MEA, focusing on developing AI solutions across various sectors, including smart cities, business intelligence, healthcare, and education. The collaboration includes building a dedicated AI lab to enhance local capabilities in computer vision and deep learning.
• Collaboration with Tahakom: SCAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tahakom, a company specializing in public safety and smart mobility technologies. This partnership aims to develop the AI infrastructure necessary for processing large data volumes generated by smart cities, further enhancing the Kingdom’s AI ecosystem.
• Oracle ERP Implementation: SCAI is collaborating with SAMA Systems to implement an Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This project aims to streamline internal processes and enhance operational efficiency across various departments.

Leadership

At the helm of SCAI is Eng. Ayman Al-Rashed, who serves as the CEO. Under his leadership, the company emphasizes building a robust AI ecosystem that can drive innovation and contribute to the Kingdom’s digital transformation agenda. Al-Rashed has highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving SCAI’s objectives, aiming to leverage global expertise to enhance local capabilities in AI.

Significant Achievements

SCAI has made notable strides since its establishment, contributing significantly to the advancement of AI in Saudi Arabia. Key achievements include:

• Implementation of Oracle ERP: Partnering with SAMA Systems to enhance operational efficiency through the implementation of an Oracle ERP system.
• Investment in AI Infrastructure: Significant investments in AI infrastructure and super-computing capabilities, essential for supporting the next generation of AI applications in various sectors.

Strategic Importance

SCAI’s initiatives are crucial for several reasons:

• Economic Diversification: By investing in AI and technology, SCAI supports Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency.
• Job Creation: The company aims to create highly skilled jobs for Saudis in the tech sector, contributing to workforce development.
• Technological Advancement: SCAI’s projects are designed to foster innovation and enhance the country’s technological landscape, aligning with the broader goals of Vision 2030.

Conclusion

Through its various initiatives and partnerships, SCAI is positioned as a catalyst for the growth of the AI sector in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence is not only contributing to the technological advancement of the Kingdom but also playing a crucial role in achieving the objectives outlined in Vision 2030. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in AI and emerging technologies, SCAI stands at the forefront of this transformative journey, driving innovation and economic value in line with national objectives.