Powering Saudi Arabia’s strategic leap into the future of technology 

The pace of technological advancement today is unprecedented, and those driving innovation are shaping the future of the global digital economy. Saudi Arabia is embracing this shift with ambition and purpose. Having witnessed the Kingdom’s rapid progress, I’m deeply impressed by its strategic commitment to technological leadership. 

Guided by the forward-thinking framework of its Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is redefining its economy and cultivating a dynamic ecosystem driven by technology that unlocks new opportunities for future generations. Saudi Arabia recently ranked 4th in the 2024 United Nations E-Government Development Index. It also placed 14th in the Global AI Index for 2024 , and first in the Arab world, demonstrating the country’s rapid progress in AI adoption as well as its growing influence in the technology sector. 

At HP, we view ourselves as a key partner in Saudi Arabia’s technological advancement, actively investing in local manufacturing, AI and talent development to support sustainable economic growth. 

Building a new era of manufacturing excellence 

At LEAP, we announced a new manufacturing facility in Riyadh which marks a significant milestone in our support for reinforcing the country’s technological infrastructure. As part of HP’s “Made in Saudi” initiative, this strategic investment enhances HP’s regional presence and ability to scale local production, contributing to a more resilient supply chain. 

Saudi Arabia’s strategic position, bridging Asia, Europe and Africa, makes it a prime location for regional and global distribution. Establishing operations in the Kingdom ensures that regional businesses and consumers have seamless access to the latest technology while enhancing trade networks. This new facility will manufacture millions of devices locally, boosting supply chain resilience, and enabling HP to better serve its customers in the region. 

With economic development in mind, HP’s “Made in Saudi” initiative and the new manufacturing facility also support the Kingdom’s broader economic diversification agenda by contributing to its job creation goals. By 2027, thousands of new jobs will be created thanks to the Riyadh facility, enhancing the country’s economic transformation through direct and indirect employment and empowering local talent. 

Accelerating AI leadership 

As AI is reshaping industries worldwide, HP also intends to support Saudi Arabia in leading this transformation. HP’s new AI and R&D Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Dhahran will serve as a hub for innovation and new AI solutions, optimising business operations, enhancing decision-making, and unlocking new economic opportunities for Saudi companies. This investment by HP in Saudi Arabia’s knowledge-based economy by equipping its workforce with AI skills and tools also fits within the Vision 2030’s objective to diversify the country’s economy.  

By attracting top talent and fostering collaboration with AI experts from HP’s global research teams, the CoE will empower Saudi professionals to drive AI advancements and innovation across various industries. The facility will develop specialised research initiatives, equipping Saudi businesses with the capabilities to remain competitive in a changing economy. It will facilitate training programs, workshops, and talent exchange efforts, ensuring the Saudi workforce remains at the forefront of technological advancements. 

Beyond driving research and development, the CoE will solidify Saudi Arabia’s leadership in implementing new AI solutions to existing industries. By embedding AI capabilities in smart cities as well as into core sectors such as healthcare and finance, the CoE will support businesses in adapting to an increasingly AI-powered world. 

Transforming the future of work with AI 

Business leaders in Saudi Arabia recognise AI’s potential to sharpen employee focus and unlock new levels of efficiency. At HP, we envision a future where AI redefines productivity, personalisation and workplace fulfilment. According to HP’s Work Relationship Index, a survey of 15,600 IT industry workers across 12 countries, more than half of surveyed participants believe that AI will create a better working environment. HP is committed to delivering on that optimism, ensuring businesses in Saudi Arabia and beyond can fully leverage AI’s potential in the workplace. 

HP is putting AI directly in the hands of businesses with solutions designed to enhance and streamline workflows. As part of its commitment to the future of work, HP has recently unveiled the HP EliteBook Ultra, a next-generation AI-powered PC designed to significantly improve productivity and collaboration. This new device is equipped with AI features such as real-time transcription, intelligent noise reduction, and an AI-enhanced camera experience. Its sustainable design also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to environmental responsibility. The EliteBook Ultra, along with HP’s suite of AI-powered products, offers an opportunity to empower professionals to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently. 

HP’s long-term vision in Saudi Arabia extends beyond providing technology. It involves becoming a trusted partner in the Kingdom’s digital transformation. The “Made in Saudi” initiative, the CoE, and HP’s workforce development projects exemplify its dedication to supporting Saudi Arabia’s leadership in AI-driven industries, economic diversification, and job creation.  

As Saudi Arabia advances towards becoming a global AI and technology pioneer, HP is honoured to play a key role in this journey. 

• Fadle Saad, Managing Director Saudi Arabia, HP MENA Regional Headquarters