Riyadh: Director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), Dr. Esam A. Alwagait, emphasized the importance of using next-generation technologies in infrastructure, AI, data, and IoT to create adaptable and sustainable environments where humans are prioritized.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Alwagait, in his speech at the Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona, articulated that the global shift from smart cities to cognitive cities has redefined urban dynamics. He noted that these cities not only respond to changes but also anticipate them, learning and evolving to cater to the needs of their residents. Cognitive technologies supported by AI are pivotal in enhancing city sustainability and inclusivity.
Alwagait explained that emerging technologies play a role beyond infrastructure enhancement, focusing on creating cities that are adaptable and proactive. Cognitive cities utilize vast data generated within their ecosystems to improve service delivery and anticipate
future needs. He highlighted that technology forms the backbone of modern urbanism, impacting areas like traffic management and integrated citizen services.
He further noted that technology-led solutions are crucial for cities to become resilient against environmental, economic, and social challenges. These technologies are vital for developing livable and future-ready cities, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 to modernize urban environments for citizen well-being.
Alwagait also mentioned SDAIA’s efforts in smart cities, supporting government entities and initiatives through platforms like the National Smart Cities Platform (Smart C), which aims to implement smart solutions for urban improvement, traffic congestion alleviation, and accident reduction.
He discussed several SDAIA initiatives, such as the “Deem” government cloud, which accelerated digital transformation for over 200 government entities, reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. The National Data Bank (NDB) was another initiative that im
proved data-driven decision-making by integrating systems and APIs, boosting data sharing and the digital economy.
The ‘Estishraf’ platform at SDAIA exemplifies the Kingdom’s proactive approach to urban challenges through advanced analytics and AI. It provides real-time insights and has achieved significant cost savings, enhancing adaptability and innovation in urban needs.
Alwagait highlighted the ‘Tawakkalna’ application, initially a COVID-19 response tool, now a digital companion providing over 315 government services to improve life quality for over 30 million users, integral to the Kingdom’s digital transformation.
Saudi cities’ global achievements were noted, with five cities entering the IMD Smart City Index, and Riyadh ranked 25th globally, third regionally. The Smart Riyadh Operations Center (Smart ROC) utilizes AI for infrastructure monitoring, traffic management, and safety, with AI solutions reducing congestion during major events.
The NEOM project, representing future urban life through next-
gen infrastructure and AI-based services, is setting a new era for sustainable and carbon-neutral cities. Trojena in NEOM is on a journey to integrate cognitive technologies, aiming for exceptional experiences and setting new standards for global destinations.
Saudi Arabia’s smart city commitment extends globally, hosting the Global Smart City Forum in February 2024 to discuss urban resilience and sustainability. The Kingdom aims to showcase advanced technologies at Expo 2030, enhancing global sustainability.
Alwagait concluded that Saudi Arabia’s city vision extends beyond technology to a shared global responsibility, aligning with global goals prioritizing sustainability, resilience, and quality of life for humanity’s benefit.
