Saudi Arabia has been hailed as a leading global example of digital transformation by Hajar El-Haddaoui, Director-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), during an interview with Arab News in New York. The remarks came as the Riyadh-based multilateral body unveiled a series of initiatives to combat “digital poverty” and strengthen inclusive digital economies worldwide.
Founded in 2020 during Saudi Arabia’s G20 presidency, the DCO has expanded from its original five members to 16 countries across the Arab world, Africa, Europe, and Asia, representing 800 million people and a combined GDP of $3.5 trillion. The organization has built a strong support ecosystem with global firms including Nvidia, TikTok, Deloitte, Oracle, Visa, and KPMG.
Key new initiatives include WE-Elevate, a program to empower female entrepreneurs; the upcoming launch of a landmark AI treaty to guide ethical use of artificial intelligence; and DEN 2.0, an upgraded Digital Economy Navigator analyzing 80 countries’ digital readiness. The DCO also announced new collaborations with the World Economic Forum, UN Women, and leading technology companies.
Saudi Arabia’s digital governance models—such as the Absher government services platform—are already being adopted in other countries. El-Haddaoui noted that the Kingdom’s ability to replicate and share successful models makes it “one of the best examples” of digital transformation globally.
Beyond policy, the DCO has mobilized significant funding for member states. Pakistan recently secured $700 million in digital development commitments, while Rwanda’s women-led SME initiative has already elevated over 150 businesses and created 30,000 jobs, with plans to scale globally to generate 250,000 jobs.
El-Haddaoui emphasized that closing the global digital divide is central to the DCO’s mission. With 2.8 billion people still offline, the organization aims to unite governments, private sector players, and multilateral bodies to ensure equitable access to the digital economy.
“The complete change happening in Saudi Arabia is remarkable,” El-Haddaoui said. “It reflects a model of partnership, cooperation, and best practice sharing that can accelerate progress for all member states.”
