Saudi Arabia has solidified its position as the largest digital economy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), with a market value exceeding SR495 billion ($132 billion). The Kingdom leads the Arab world in smart city investments, ranks first in the Government AI Readiness Index, and tops the 2024 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity Index. Its Internet of Things (IoT) market is growing rapidly, with an expected annual growth rate of 12-18% to reach SR25.8 billion.
Globally, IoT investments are projected to surpass SR4.5 trillion by 2026, with the MENA IoT market forecasted to hit SR90 billion. Riyadh is set to host the Global Internet of Things Congress 2025 from October 21 for three days, marking the largest IoT event in Saudi Arabia and the wider region. The event will showcase over 200 exhibitors and speakers from sectors including IoT, AI, smart cities, energy, and healthcare, attracting more than 5,000 industry leaders, government officials, investors, and entrepreneurs worldwide.
Abdullah bin Salem Al-Bedaiwy, Chairman of the Internet of Things Association (IoTA), highlighted the association’s commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing local content, and launching a global IoT platform centered in Saudi Arabia. The Congress aims to drive cross-sector knowledge exchange, innovation, and investment, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals.
