For the final time in 2024, Ezditek has been tracking the latest news and trends taking place across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
We’ve rounded up the biggest, innovative stories from December below.
Economy Middle East: Saudi Arabia Launches Riyadh Declaration for Inclusive and Innovative AI
Saudi Arabia has introduced the “Riyadh Declaration” at the start of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF Riyadh 2024). The forum aims to drive international digital cooperation around the globe. The declaration underscores AI’s role in improving digital access, literacy and economic value while addressing global challenges.
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ZAWYA: Apple to Launch Online Store in Saudi Arabia in 2025, Flagship Retail Stores by 2026
Apple has announced plans to expand its presence in the KSA. The launch of an online Apple store in the summer of 2025 will offer customers access to Apple’s full range of services and products in Arabic for the first time. By 2026, the company plans to open its first flagship store in the Kingdom.
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Saudi Press Agency: Saudi Arabia Ranks Third Globally in OECD AI Policy Observatory for Regulation Efforts
Saudi Arabia has been ranked third globally, following the United States and the United Kingdom, in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s AI Policy Observatory, reflecting the Kingdom’s outstanding efforts in AI regulation. The KSA has boosted trust in AI products, promoted mature practices and has adhered to ethical standards to develop AI systems.
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Saudi Gazette: Saudi Arabia, UK Commit to $37.5 Billion Trade Target by 2030
Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing economic partnerships, increasing bilateral trade to $37.5 billion by 2030. The nations pledged to boost mutual investments through Vision 2030 and the UK’s Industrial Strategy. This will drive future global competitiveness, create jobs, and promote prosperity for their people, ensuring sustainable growth.
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Gulf Business: Saudi Arabia Signs Solar Deals with France’s TotalEnergies, EDF
TotalEnergies will build a 0.3 gigawatt (GW) solar park in Saudi Arabia, while EDF Renewables will build two solar parks totalling 1.4GW as part of a series of deals in Riyadh. The KSA is aiming to build 130GW of renewable capacity by 2030, estimating to be responsible for a third of the growth in renewables for the entire Middle East and North Africa region over the next five years.
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Arab News: 30 Polish Firms Set to Open HQs in Saudi Arabia, Says Minister
Poland is currently working to establish headquarters for up to 30 companies in the KSA as both nations focus on expanding business cooperation, particularly within technology and digital sectors. The interest of Polish firms aligns with Saudi’s Vision 2030 plan and positions the KSA as a regional hub for digital innovation.
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