Statistics: 98% internet penetration in Saudi establishments by 2024
The General Authority for Statistics in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the results of the 2024 Information and Communication Technology Access and Use Survey for Establishments, which revealed that the percentage of establishments that have an internet connection reached 98%, thus achieving an annual growth of 0.3% compared to the previous year 2023. These results confirm the continued pace of the accelerated digital transformation in the Saudi business sector.
The context of digital transformation and Vision 2030
These figures cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader context of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, where digital transformation is a cornerstone of the National Transformation Program. These concerted government efforts aim to build a robust digital infrastructure that supports the digital economy and enhances operational efficiency in both the public and private sectors. This surge in internet penetration indicates the success of policies designed to equip businesses with the technological tools necessary to compete locally and regionally.
Advanced indicators in artificial intelligence and cloud computing
The report's detailed data revealed a qualitative shift in the nature of technology use, moving beyond basic network connectivity. 27.6% of organizations now employ artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, with the information and communications technology (ICT) sector leading the way at 52.8%, followed by the financial and insurance sector at 44.7%, and then education at 42.1%. Regarding cloud computing, 46.8% of organizations rely on these services, reflecting a trend towards more flexible and cost-effective technological solutions.
E-commerce and government services
In terms of financial and governmental transactions, electronic banking services recorded a usage rate of 76.3%, while the use of e-government services by establishments reached 92%, reflecting the maturity of the Kingdom's digital government system and the ease of doing business. Statistics also revealed a growing reliance on e-commerce, with 46.8% of establishments using the internet to purchase goods and services.
Economic importance and international reliability
These statistics are of paramount importance to investors and decision-makers, as they provide a clear indication of the readiness of the Saudi business environment to adopt modern technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), which is used by 68.4% of establishments for security purposes. The authority confirmed that these results are based on a methodology compliant with the standards of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), ensuring the reliability and international comparability of the data and reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leading digital hub in the Middle East and North Africa region.
