Saudi Arabia’s business sector is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence, with adoption reaching 33.1 percent in 2025, according to the latest data from the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT).
The figure marks a 20 percent increase compared to 2024. It also highlights the Kingdom’s continued push toward digital transformation under its broader economic diversification agenda.
ICT Sector Emerges as the Leading AI User
The information and communications technology (ICT) sector recorded the highest AI adoption rate at 61.1 percent.
Meanwhile, the financial and insurance sector followed closely at 52.9 percent. The education sector ranked third, with AI usage reaching 51 percent.
Several other industries also reported strong adoption levels. Transportation and storage businesses recorded AI usage of 44.4 percent, while professional and technical activities reached 43.9 percent.
These figures underline the growing role of artificial intelligence in improving efficiency, customer experience, and operational performance across Saudi industries.
Internet Access and Digital Services Reach New Highs
Saudi businesses continue to strengthen their digital capabilities.
According to GASTAT, 98.1 percent of establishments now have internet access. At the same time, the use of government digital services reached 93.2 percent.
Businesses are also relying more heavily on online financial tools. The survey found that 79.1 percent of establishments use internet banking services.
In addition, social media remains an important business channel. Around 66.3 percent of establishments use social media platforms, while 52.3 percent actively advertise products and services through these channels.
IoT Adoption Expands Across Business Operations
Internet of Things (IoT) technologies are becoming increasingly common across Saudi enterprises.
Building security remains the most popular use case. Around 71.4 percent of businesses deploy IoT-enabled solutions such as smart alarms, surveillance systems, fire detection tools, and intelligent door locks.
Furthermore, 54.6 percent of establishments use IoT technologies to improve customer service operations.
Businesses are also applying IoT to energy management, with adoption reaching 40 percent. Another 25.4 percent use connected technologies for maintenance and asset monitoring.
E-Commerce Activity Continues to Grow
Online business activity also recorded steady growth during the year. According to the report, 33.5 percent of establishments use the internet to sell or showcase products and services.
The financial and insurance sector led e-commerce adoption, with 48.5 percent of businesses conducting online sales activities.
Among establishments receiving online orders, 28 percent deliver products or services digitally, reflecting the increasing maturity of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy.
Cloud Computing Becomes Mainstream
Cloud technology adoption has crossed an important milestone in Saudi Arabia.
The survey found that 51.3 percent of establishments now use cloud computing services.Among cloud users, 56.4 percent rely on cloud-based office software. This represents a 5.4 percent increase from 2024.
Similarly, cloud email usage climbed 9.9 percent year-on-year to reach 55.3 percent. Cloud storage adoption also expanded, rising 4.1 percent to 42.8 percent.
The growing demand for cloud services reflects businesses’ efforts to improve scalability, collaboration, and data accessibility.
GASTAT Survey Follows Global Standards
GASTAT noted that the Establishments’ ICT Access and Usage Survey follows internationally recognized standards established by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
As a result, the methodology ensures data accuracy, reliability, and international comparability.
The findings reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as one of the region’s fastest-growing digital economies, with businesses increasingly investing in artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, e-commerce, and connected systems.
