Saudi Arabia has made a leap of 25 positions in the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) for 2024, establishing itself as a prominent player on the global stage. The nation now ranks fourth overall, first in the region, and second among G20 nations in the digital services index. Furthermore, it achieved seventh place in the e-participation index, while Riyadh stands out at third among 193 global cities, SPA reported.
Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Alswaha, Saudi minister of Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of the Digital Government Authority, expressed his deep gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for their unwavering support of the technical and digital sectors. He further noted that this significant advancement is a direct result of the Crown Prince’s backing, which has propelled Saudi Arabia to digital excellence and leadership. This progress aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and reinforces the country’s position as a key player in the digital economy at both regional and global levels. The minister emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to continuing its journey toward innovation and leadership in a knowledge-based economy.
Commitment to high-quality digital services
Eng. Ahmed bin Mohammed Alsuwaiyan, governor of the Digital Government Authority, highlighted that Saudi Arabia’s ongoing progress in the EGDI is indicative of the wise leadership’s commitment to delivering top-notch digital government services to all beneficiaries. He commended the diligent oversight provided through the executive programs of Saudi Vision 2030, which have significantly influenced the country’s ranking. This advancement has been made possible through comprehensive reforms and investments that have improved collaboration among government entities, incorporating emerging technologies and launching a variety of digital initiatives.
Collaborative efforts driving success
The collaborative efforts of the Digital Government Authority, alongside all government agencies, have been crucial in achieving this high ranking. By implementing the latest digital solutions to mature government services, establishing regulations and guidelines, offering consulting programs, and nurturing emerging talent in digital transformation, Saudi Arabia has reached this notable position.
Significant progress across key indices
The report acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s impressive strides in digital government, now ranking sixth globally. Following the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, the country has witnessed substantial investments, moving up 53 places in the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index (TII) and advancing 31 places in the Human Capital Index (HCI). It also made significant gains in the Online Service Index (OSI), climbing 67 places to achieve a fourth-place ranking globally in 2024. Moreover, the maturity of digital government regulations has reached 100 percent, as has the accessibility and sharing of open government data for citizens and businesses. Saudi Arabia also progressed by 60 places in e-participation and consultations aimed at individuals and businesses.
The EGDI, published biennially, has been a vital international indicator for over two decades, reflecting the effects of structural reforms on productivity, efficiency, and user experience in the digital governance of UN member states. The sub-indexes within the report serve as essential benchmarks for assessing government performance across the globe.
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