Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia will establish more smart industrial zones, Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, Majed Al-Hogail revealed at the conclusion of the inaugural Global Smart City Forum 2024 here on Tuesday, highlighting the critical role of smart cities in fostering industrial growth, technological diffusion, and sustainable development.
Organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, the two-day forum attracted global experts, digital specialists, and investors from 40 countries, all gathering under the theme “A Better Life.” Al-Hogail, inaugurated the event at Riyadh Arena.
Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef who also attended the Forum stressed the industry and mining sectors’ increasing demand for smart industrial cities, integrating advanced digital infrastructure, technology, and essential services like communication, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions, Saudi Gazette reported.
Dr. Esam Al-Wagait, the director of the National Information Center at SDAIA, emphasized the forum’s significance as a beacon of hope for the Kingdom’s vision of sustainable, comprehensive, and smart urban development.
The discussions covered crucial topics such as creating green cities, utilizing data for better city management, improving mobility, introducing new technologies, and elevating city services to the highest standards.
Al-Wagait highlighted the importance of integrating smart energy solutions for a sustainable future and promoting a smart economy centered on innovation. He also underlined the need for smart governance, revolutionizing mobility through intelligent transportation systems, and prioritizing human well-being through smart healthcare and education.
SDAIA, at the forefront of smart city initiatives, pledged its commitment to activating and developing artificial intelligence and data technologies. Al-Wagait announced the launch of the SDAIA Center for Congestion Solutions, leveraging data and artificial intelligence.
Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, credited the rapid developments in the aviation sector to the outcomes of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to transform the Saudi economy and reflect the progress of cities and societies.
The forum witnessed the establishment of the Center of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Industry and Mining by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, in collaboration with SDAIA.
SDAIA signed a memorandum of understanding with the Diriyah Company for Qualifying Human Resources in artificial intelligence and smart cities. An agreement with the Saudi Telecom Company (STC) was also finalized to provide training services for the latest technologies in application development and technical innovations.