The Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations, Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, affirmed that the signing of the Memorandum of Intent between the Digital Government Authority and the United Nations to establish a global center for digital government in Riyadh represents a true embodiment of the Kingdom’s leadership and its firm commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at accelerating the pace of digital transformation and employing modern technologies to serve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Background and context of the initiative: A culmination of the efforts of Vision 2030
The selection of Riyadh as the headquarters for this important global center comes within the context of the Kingdom's tireless efforts since the launch of Vision 2030, which has established digital transformation as one of its key pillars for diversifying the economy and building a vibrant society and effective government. Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in the field of digital government, launching advanced platforms such as "Absher," "Tawakkalna," and "Sehhaty," which have facilitated access to government services for millions of citizens and residents efficiently and easily. This progress has been reflected in the Kingdom's improved ranking in international indicators, such as the United Nations' E-Government Development Index, making it a model to be emulated in the region and the world.
The importance of the center and its expected impact
The establishment of the center is not merely an international recognition of the success of the Saudi experience, but also aims to be an effective global platform for exchanging expertise and best practices in the field of digital policies and standards. Dr. Al-Wasil explained that the center will contribute directly to supporting national capacity building for UN member states, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and developing innovative solutions to address shared challenges. The center is expected to have multiple positive impacts
- Locally: It will enhance Riyadh’s position as a digital Arab capital and a regional center for technological innovation, and will attract global talent and expertise, thus accelerating the pace of achieving the goals of Vision 2030.
- Regionally and internationally: The center will provide technical and advisory support to countries, especially developing ones, to develop their digital strategies, which will contribute to bridging the digital divide and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on a wider scale, and raise the efficiency of government services globally.
Strategic partnership for a sustainable digital future
This step reflects the importance that the wise leadership – may God support them – places on strengthening effective partnerships with international organizations, foremost among them the United Nations and its various agencies. The new center serves as a bridge for communication between countries to unify efforts and coordinate digital policies, ensuring the building of a secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital future for all, starting from the Saudi capital, Riyadh.
