Riyadh is rapidly establishing itself as a premier hub for technology startups in the Middle East, driven by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, cutting-edge infrastructure, and strategic government support.
According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the Kingdom’s information and communication technology (ICT) market is expected to reach $54.90 billion by 2025 and soar to $82.51 billion by 2030, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.49 percent.
This surge underscores Saudi Arabia’s rising status as a center of innovation in the region.
At the core of this transformation is Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s long-term economic diversification plan that places technology and innovation at its heart. Flagship projects such as NEOM—a $500 billion smart city integrating artificial intelligence and renewable energy—and Riyadh Tech Valley, a dedicated zone for AI, IoT, and robotics startups, exemplify the nation’s ambitious tech agenda.
The government has also launched programs like the Saudi Unicorns Program and Tech Growth Financing, providing vital support mechanisms to help startups scale and thrive, further boosting Riyadh’s attractiveness to entrepreneurs and investors.
Emmanuel Durou, Technology, Media, and Telecommunications Leader at Deloitte Middle East, pointed to three major operational drivers behind Riyadh’s rise. “First, Saudi Arabia’s advanced digital infrastructure has significantly accelerated startup growth,” he noted in an interview with Arab News.
As the city continues to invest in future-focused ecosystems, Riyadh is poised to become not just a regional leader, but a global player in the innovation economy.
