CST Launches Public Consultation on Global AI Hub Law
According to a CST press release, the law is designed to reinforce Saudi Arabia's position as a global digital hub and a leading force in the international digital economy. It promotes innovation, entrepreneurship, and research in advanced technologies, while also enabling the development of sovereign data centers to ensure service continuity and cross-border data sovereignty. The law also supports investment in data and AI services to stimulate market growth and strengthen sustainable digital infrastructure.
Proposal Outlines 3 Advanced Hosting Models: Private Center : Designed to host international data and services within the Kingdom.
: Designed to host international data and services within the Kingdom. Extended Center
Virtual Center: Both aimed at attracting major AI and cloud computing companies to serve global clients from within Saudi Arabia, offering varying levels of sovereignty and privileges.
The law aligns with international agreements and global best practices.
CST encourages feedback from government bodies, private sector entities, investors, and the general public. Contributions can be submitted from April 14 to May 14, 2025, via the official consultation portal: istitlaa.ncc.gov.sa.
G20
The release also highlights Saudi Arabia's advanced digital infrastructure, ranking second among G20 nations in the 2024 ICT Development Index by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Finally, the Kingdom's telecom and tech markets reached SAR 166 billion in 2023, marking it as the largest and fastest-growing in the MENA region and a global leader in technology adoption and development.
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