Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has laid the foundation stone for the ‘Hexagon’ Data Centre in Riyadh, marking the official start of construction of what will become the world’s largest government data centre by megawatt capacity. The project spans an area of 30 million square feet.
Designed to the highest international standards, the centre will ensure maximum availability, security, and operational readiness for government data centres, according to SDAIA. Classified as Tier IV and holding the highest rating from the global Uptime Institute, the facility will have a total capacity of 480 megawatts upon completion.
The Hexagon Data Centre is intended to meet the growing data and digital infrastructure needs of government entities, supporting the expanding reliance on electronic services across the Kingdom. SDAIA stated that the project will contribute to strengthening the national economy and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position in the global digital economy.
The foundation-laying ceremony was attended by senior officials from various government entities and hosted by SDAIA President Dr Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi, along with other SDAIA officials.
The event featured an introductory presentation by Dr Issam bin Abdullah Alwagait, Director of the National Information Center at SDAIA, who outlined the project’s technical and engineering specifications, operational architecture, and international accreditations aligned with recognised global standards.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Alghamdi highlighted that the project reflects the continued support of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of SDAIA’s Board of Directors. He noted that this support enables SDAIA to advance the Kingdom’s leadership ambitions in data, big data, and artificial intelligence.
Dr Alghamdi added that SDAIA will continue to pursue pioneering initiatives aimed at building an integrated digital ecosystem, strengthening national data and AI capabilities, and developing world-class technical infrastructure. He said the project aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives of building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy and achieving global leadership in advanced technologies.
SDAIA reaffirmed that the Kingdom will continue to strengthen its role in advanced technologies through sustained national support and long-term strategic investments.
