About one in five internet users in Saudi Arabia now actively use AI tools — and it’s the younger crowd leading the charge, especially those in their 20s.
That’s one of the standout findings from the newly released Saudi Internet 2024 report by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). It paints a clear picture: AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore in the Kingdom. It’s part of daily life for millions, especially among the tech-savvy younger generation.
Gen Z and Young Millennials Are All In
If you’re between 20 and 29 years old in Saudi Arabia, chances are high you’ve already embraced AI tools in some shape or form.
According to the CST report, 27.3% of users in that age bracket reported using AI-powered apps and services — the highest of any demographic group. In comparison, the national average usage stands at 21.5%.
This trend underscores a bigger shift. Younger Saudis are more plugged into the evolving tech landscape, and they’re making use of AI in everything from study aids and job applications to content creation and even dating.
It’s not just a coincidence. Most of them grew up in a post-smartphone world where using intelligent apps isn’t something you “learn” — it’s just how things are done.
What Are Saudis Using AI For, Exactly?
The range of AI applications in daily use is broader than many might expect. CST highlighted several categories that are becoming common digital companions for Saudis.
Here’s what’s catching on:
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Smart translation apps for multilingual communication
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Virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant to manage tasks
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Content generation tools for writing, video scripts, and social media
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Data analysis apps for both business and academic use
These tools aren’t just fun gadgets. For many users, they’re helping with work, school, and personal productivity. That’s part of the appeal — AI is no longer reserved for engineers or coders. It’s just… useful.
A Country in Digital Overdrive
Saudi Arabia isn’t shy about its digital ambitions. Under Vision 2030, tech transformation has been a central pillar, and that effort seems to be resonating with its population.
Internet infrastructure has improved significantly. 5G rollout, cloud adoption, and government-supported platforms have made access to tech more seamless than ever before.
One sentence worth noting: Saudi Arabia wants to be the “digital heart” of the region.
And with the rapid expansion of data centers, AI labs, and tech education programs, it’s not just wishful thinking. The growing use of AI tools is part of that bigger picture — a digitally fluent society ready for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Who’s Using What? A Closer Look at the Numbers
The CST report didn’t just stop at overall usage stats — it offered a demographic breakdown too. Here’s a simple snapshot comparing age groups and their AI tool usage rates:
It’s easy to see who’s driving the trend. But what’s equally interesting is that even users in their 30s and 40s aren’t far behind. There’s clear momentum across the board — though younger people remain at the forefront.
A Reference Point for Future Tech Policy
The Saudi Internet 2024 report isn’t just an information dump — it’s a strategic document.
Published annually, it helps officials, educators, and private companies understand how digital behavior is changing. It also offers a baseline to measure the success of digital initiatives under Vision 2030.
In a country where tech is part of national strategy, that’s more than just an interesting read. It’s the blueprint for what’s coming next.
For now, it’s clear that AI is no longer on the sidelines in Saudi Arabia. It’s already being folded into daily routines — quietly, quickly, and across a wide spectrum of society.
