Minister of Communications: Riyadh Welcomes World to Expo 2030 with Solid Heritage, Digital and Innovative Renaissance

The Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Engineer Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha, has affirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to host Expo 2030 as a global initiative to empower people, protect the planet, and shape new horizons. He added that the event is set to serve as a bridge to connect the world through science, innovation, and culture, with the full support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, and HRH the Crown Prince, who have been instrumental in driving the growth and prosperity of the Kingdom.

 In a statement to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Al-Swaha stated, “The Kingdom’s hosting of this important event is the result of HRH the Crown Prince’s support for this file so that the Kingdom will be the focus of the world’s attention, as a unique platform that opens horizons for the future and welcomes the world with its solid heritage, digital and innovative renaissance, and diverse culture.”

 He further noted that the Kingdom’s initiatives in technology, innovation, space, and sustainability have placed Riyadh in a leadership position to achieve a better future for all. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in finding solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges related to sustainable development, climate action, and growth, which Riyadh Expo 2030 aims to address comprehensively.

 Al-Swaha also highlighted the Kingdom’s leadership in the field of generative artificial intelligence, with the establishment of the region’s first Generative Artificial Intelligence Accelerator (GAIA), and the largest deep technology business incubator (The Garage) in the region. He said, “Today we have an opportunity to lay the foundation for our global future economy, with the entry into the era of generative artificial intelligence.”

 The Minister highlighted the Kingdom’s significant digital accomplishments, garnering global recognition. This includes ranking third in the GovTech Maturity Index issued by the World Bank (GTMI), securing second place among G20 nations, and holding the fourth global position in digital regulatory readiness, as per the International Telecommunication Union report titled “Global Digital Regulatory Outlook 2023.”