Saudi Arabia has retained the top global ranking in the 2026 Information and Communication Technology Development Index with a score of 99.8 out of 100, driven by continued investment in digital infrastructure and connectivity. The Kingdom ranked first globally for the second consecutive year in the index published by the International Telecommunication Union, which measures digital development across 159 economies using indicators covering universal and meaningful connectivity.
Leadership in Both Pillars
The Communications, Space and Technology Commission said the Kingdom’s performance reflected its advanced position across both pillars, supported by continued investment in the sector, public-private partnerships, and the expansion of nationwide digital infrastructure. Saudi Arabia received a full score for universal connectivity and 99.6 points for meaningful connectivity, the two pillars used to calculate the index.
Vision 2030 Driving Digital Transformation
The latest ranking underscores Saudi Arabia’s efforts to accelerate digital transformation under Vision 2030, with the Kingdom investing heavily in next-generation telecommunications networks, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to diversify its economy beyond oil. The commission stated that “the Kingdom’s continued leadership in this index confirms the development taking place in its infrastructure and regulatory environment, which has contributed to strengthening its international leadership and the growth of its digital economy.”
GCC and Regional Performance
Saudi Arabia led Gulf Cooperation Council countries with an overall score of 99.8, ahead of the UAE at 98.8, Qatar and Kuwait at 98.4 each, Bahrain at 98 and Oman at 91.6. The six GCC countries recorded an average score of 97.5, well above the Arab States regional average of 78. The value of the Kingdom’s telecommunications and technology market reached SR199 billion ($53.1 billion) by the end of 2025, representing a compound annual growth rate of 8 percent over the previous five years.
Market Growth and Connectivity Milestones
According to the commission, the figures underscore Saudi Arabia’s position as the largest and fastest-growing telecommunications and technology market in the Middle East and North Africa. Internet usage in the Kingdom reached 100 percent, while the median mobile Internet speed rose to 216 megabits per second. The commission said Saudi Arabia’s continued position among the highest-ranked economies in the ICT Development Index reflected the rapid growth of its digital sector and its expanding international standing.
