Saudi Minister Engages US Tech Giants to Boost Digital Innovation
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha, has wrapped up his official visit to Washington where he held a series of high-profile meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and fostering the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia. The visit, reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), highlighted the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing its digital infrastructure and embracing cutting-edge technologies.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha, has wrapped up his official visit to Washington where he held a series of high-profile meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and fostering the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia. The visit, reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), highlighted the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing its digital infrastructure and embracing cutting-edge technologies.
During his visit, Al-Swaha focused on promoting the development of fifth and sixth generation technologies, ORAN technologies, and space technologies. He met with prominent figures in the tech industry, including META CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon Web Services (AWS) CEO Matt Garman, Groq CEO and Founder Jonathan Ross, and SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell. These meetings were integral to Saudi Arabia's strategy of importing advanced technology and innovation from the United States.
Strengthening Digital Economy Ties
In his discussions with Matt Garman, Al-Swaha explored ways to foster strategic partnerships between Saudi Arabia and the United States. They reviewed AWS's investments in high-capacity cloud areas and discussed how to strengthen the growth of the digital economy across the Kingdom. The meeting underscored Saudi Arabia's pursuit of enhancing its digital infrastructure and capturing numerous investment and technological opportunities.
Al-Swaha also held significant talks with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, where they delved into the U.S.'s support for the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia. They highlighted available investment opportunities that could accelerate scientific and technical progress in various sectors across the Kingdom. This engagement demonstrated the mutual interest in developing a robust digital economy that benefits both nations.
In another key meeting, Al-Swaha sat down with Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology Anne Neuberger to deepen bilateral partnerships in fifth and sixth generation technologies as well as ORAN RAN technologies. This collaboration is pivotal for Saudi Arabia as it aims to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and cyber security.
Exploring Space Technologies and Digital Innovation
Al-Swaha's visit also included discussions with Special Presidential Coordinator for Global Infrastructure and Energy Security Amos Hochstein and National Security Council Middle East and North Africa Coordinator Brett McGurk. These conversations focused on enhancing cooperation in digital economy and innovation, reflecting Saudi Arabia's holistic approach to integrating advanced technologies across various sectors.
Moreover, to foster joint investments in space economies, Al-Swaha emphasized the latest space technologies in his meeting with the Executive Secretary of the White House National Space Council, Chirag Parikh. This engagement highlighted Saudi Arabia's interest in expanding its capabilities in space technology and collaborating with global leaders in this field.
Saudi officials are keen on strengthening their ties with U.S. tech leaders to accelerate the Kingdom’s digital transformation. Al-Swaha's strategic discussions with industry giants and government officials reflect a broader vision of integrating advanced technologies and fostering a robust digital economy. This visit signifies a new era of technological import and innovation for Saudi Arabia, aiming to secure its position on the global tech stage.
The culmination of Al-Swaha’s visit underscores the Kingdom’s ambition to harness cutting-edge technology and innovation to drive its digital economy forward. By engaging with key figures in the U.S. tech industry, Saudi Arabia is poised to embrace new opportunities and build a future-proof digital infrastructure. This concerted effort marks a significant step towards realizing Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a leading hub for technology and innovation in the region.