Saudi Arabia Grapples with AI Adoption Challenges as IBM Expands Local Presence

Riyadh's LEAP 2026 conference highlighted the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors, but also underscored its adoption challenges in the workplace. According to Ayman Al-Rashed, regional vice president of IBM Saudi Arabia, more than 80% of Saudi CEOs have introduced AI into their workflows.

However, only 24% of employees are currently using AI, suggesting a significant gap between adoption and usage. Al-Rashed attributed this discrepancy to the need for education on AI usage, making it understandable, and providing guardrails and data access. He emphasized that responsible AI is crucial, with security and governance built into its strategy.

IBM has been working closely with government agencies and the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) to promote responsible AI adoption, implementing the seven principles of responsible usage. These principles include integrity, fairness, privacy, and social and environmental benefits. Al-Rashed stressed that good governance and innovation are not mutually exclusive, and that IBM's goal is to develop systems that can be used responsibly.

The company has established an IBM Software Lab in Saudi Arabia, which will serve as a hub for developing AI solutions that cater to local needs. This move aims to bolster local talent and enable the Kingdom to become a global developer and exporter of AI solutions.