Cisco has unveiled a transformative partnership with HUMAIN, Saudi Arabia’s AI enterprise, to develop the world’s most open, scalable, and resilient AI infrastructure. This collaboration, which aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, will set a new benchmark for AI infrastructure by combining Cisco’s expertise with the Kingdom’s ambitious AI goals.
The initiative aims to establish AI infrastructure in Saudi Arabia from the ground up, delivering secure, cloud-based solutions that power the Kingdom’s future digital economy. With a focus on scalability and security, the multi-year project will support Saudi Arabia’s drive to become a global leader in AI and innovation.
Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, expressed gratitude to Cisco, emphasizing the importance of the initiative in scaling AI infrastructure and advancing Saudi Arabia’s AI economy. Cisco’s commitment to the Kingdom spans over 25 years, and this initiative strengthens that relationship, positioning Saudi Arabia as a central hub for AI in the region.
Chuck Robbins, Cisco’s Chair and CEO, highlighted the role of AI in transforming economic growth and innovation, particularly in accelerating Vision 2030. Tareq Amin, CEO of HUMAIN, further emphasized that this partnership will democratize access to AI by offering an open, flexible platform that encourages global innovation.
Cisco’s role includes offering AI-ready infrastructure, security by design, and a flexible platform for integration with local and global partners. With a strong global partner network, Cisco aims to provide the scale, security, and ecosystem necessary to make AI work for Saudi Arabia’s society and economy.
Alongside the initiative with HUMAIN, Cisco is making other strategic investments to bolster Saudi Arabia’s AI ecosystem, including the establishment of the Cisco AI Institute at KAUST to foster innovation and develop AI talent. Cisco is also offering free AI and cybersecurity training to 500,000 learners over the next five years, building on its success with the Cisco Networking Academy.
Cisco’s support extends to major global events, such as Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 World Cup, where the company will provide AI-driven digital infrastructure to enhance operations and user experience. These efforts complement Cisco’s ongoing expansion in the Kingdom, including cloud security services, Webex Collaboration Platform, and local manufacturing initiatives.
David Meads, Cisco’s Vice President for the Middle East, Africa, and other regions, reaffirmed Cisco’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation. The company’s ongoing support for Vision 2030, combined with its technological leadership, will empower the Kingdom to scale AI securely and drive innovation for years to come.
This partnership marks another milestone in Cisco’s decades-long partnership with Saudi Arabia, as the company continues to support the Kingdom’s digital journey.
