arab news
RIYADH: The adoption rate of artificial intelligence in Saudi businesses will rise to 27.6 percent in 2024, reflecting the steady expansion of the use of advanced digital tools across the kingdom's private sector, according to official data.
According to the General Statistics Office's 2024 Facility ICT Access and Usage Statistics Report, the information and communications sector had the highest adoption rate of AI technology at 52.8%, followed by the finance and insurance sector at 44.7%, and the education sector at 42.1%.
The data highlights the increasing digital maturity of the Saudi private sector, with certain industries leading the transition to advanced technologies.
The professional services sector had a notable adoption rate of 39.2%, with other sectors (such as real estate 28.2%, wholesale and retail 25%, and manufacturing 26%) reflecting varying levels of engagement with AI tools.
In contrast, sectors such as construction lag at 25.8%, human health and social services at 29.9%, and arts, entertainment and recreation at 20.1%, highlighting differences in AI integration across the economy.
Other sectors showing moderate penetration of AI technology include transportation and storage at 38.3 percent and mining and quarrying at 32.4 percent.
Meanwhile, industries such as management and support services (25.2 percent) and electricity and gas distribution (25.7 percent) report lower levels of AI adoption compared to digital frontrunners.
The report also revealed that internet access in establishments across Saudi Arabia reached 98% in 2024, an increase of 0.3 percentage points year-on-year.
Social media use was reported by 63 percent of establishments, and 76.3 percent of businesses used internet platforms to conduct electronic banking transactions.
In addition to AI, the adoption of cloud computing technologies has also increased significantly. A total of 46.8 percent of facilities reported using cloud services, with the most common uses being 53.5 percent for off-the-shelf office applications, 50.3 percent for email services, and 41.1 percent for file storage.
Meanwhile, Internet of Things technologies are widely adopted by 68.4 percent for building security, 36.5 percent for energy management, and 21.1 percent for maintenance purposes.
GASTAT said the Business ICT Access and Usage Survey will be conducted using internationally consistent methodologies and in accordance with the Standards set by the Statistical Business Process Guide and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.
