Saudi Arabia ranks first among Arab countries in smart city investments and leads the region in the Government AI Readiness Index and the 2024 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity Index. Emerging as the largest digital economy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the Kingdom’s digital market has surpassed SR495 billion ($132 billion) in recent years.
The Internet of Things (IoT) market in Saudi Arabia is growing rapidly, with an estimated annual growth rate of 12-18%, expected to reach SR25.8 billion. This expansion reflects the Kingdom’s forward-looking approach to technological development and digital transformation. Globally, IoT investments are projected to exceed SR4.5 trillion by 2026, with the MENA region’s IoT market forecasted to reach SR90 billion by the same year.
Riyadh will host the Global Internet of Things Congress 2025 from October 21, the largest dedicated IoT event in Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region. The three-day congress will feature over 200 exhibitors and speakers from diverse sectors including IoT, artificial intelligence, smart cities, energy, and healthcare. It is expected to attract more than 5,000 high-profile attendees, including industry leaders, government officials, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Organized by the Internet of Things Association (IoTA), the event will include keynote sessions, interactive workshops, technology exhibitions, and strategic partnership announcements. Abdullah bin Salem Al-Bedaiwy, IoTA Chairman, emphasized the association’s commitment to innovation, investment promotion, and localization within the IoT sector, aiming to establish Saudi Arabia as the global leader for IoT.
“The Global Internet of Things Congress 2025 will foster cross-border and cross-sector collaboration, drive innovation, and unlock investment opportunities, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals,” said Al-Bedaiwy.
