In a pioneering development that reflects the integration of technology and national development, Microsoft recently unveiled a significant partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Investment as part of the "Innovation for the Alliance" initiative. This initiative aims to propel the Kingdom to the forefront of the global technological arena, especially in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, cybersecurity, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

In an exclusive interview with "Middle East" on the sidelines of the "Leap 24" exhibition held in Riyadh at the beginning of this month, Turki Badrees, the head of Microsoft Arabia, emphasized that this initiative aims not only to introduce more than 70 of Microsoft's global and regional partners to the immense possibilities within Saudi Arabia but also to align with the Kingdom's aspirations to become a global center for innovation, in line with "Vision 2030".

Badrees further explained that the primary purpose of the initiative is "to showcase Saudi Arabia's capabilities and offer incentives that attract global companies and investors."

Strategy Aligns with "Vision 2030"

Microsoft's steadfast commitment to being a leader in artificial intelligence is evident in its strategic pursuits, particularly "Vision 2030" and the comprehensive strategy for data and artificial intelligence. The cloud data center region in the Kingdom is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth and diversification. Badrees told "Middle East" that this "will also contribute to the growth and diversification of the Saudi economy, in line with Microsoft's vision to empower organizations of all sizes across all sectors through the most advanced AI models." Through its investments, the global company is working to create a thriving and dynamic technological ecosystem that enhances Saudi Arabia's position as a global hub for innovation and investment.

Many organizations across various sectors have expressed interest in leveraging Microsoft's cloud data centers to accelerate their digital transformation journeys and foster innovation. Badrees believes that the cloud data center region will positively impact the Kingdom's economic development; reports predict that together, Microsoft, its partners, and their cloud-using customers could generate approximately $24 billion in new revenue over the next four years, above the 2022 level.

Enhancing National Competencies

The rapid advancement of cloud technologies and artificial intelligence underscores the urgent need for employees across all industries to improve their digital competencies to bridge the emerging technological skill gap. Microsoft's commitment to empowering the national workforce to be at the forefront of innovation and technology is evidenced by its initiatives aimed at training and preparing current and future professionals for the digital world. Turki Badrees, head of Microsoft Arabia, asserts that his company plays a vital role in empowering the current and future workforce in the Kingdom, ensuring they are prepared for upcoming innovation and can leverage emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.

Fostering a Culture of Innovation

Saudi Arabia's thriving startup ecosystem, the largest in the region, witnessed the emergence of about 1,500 startups last year alone, supported by various government programs, according to Badrees. He assures that Microsoft's dedication to fostering a culture of innovation is evident in its collaborations aimed at nurturing startups and entrepreneurs. In early March, the Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and Microsoft announced the creation of a Center of Excellence as part of the Future Skills initiative. The center aims to enable professionals across Saudi Arabia to acquire the advanced skills necessary to thrive in the new digital age, enhancing the employability of the current and future workforce.

The Global Skills Program has enabled more than 108,000 professionals in the Kingdom to acquire the latest digital skills essential for excelling in the era of artificial intelligence. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Microsoft trained over 250,000 teachers in the past two years and 5.6 million students through the My School Coding Program. Additionally, more than 70,000 individuals benefited from the Microsoft Learn program, completing 18,000 educational tracks.

The center will offer various global training programs, including a strategic partnership with King Salman's Oasis to launch the "STEAM Academy". This aims to enhance students' digital skills and provide access to top educational resources from Microsoft, such as Minecraft, and participate in the "Imagine Cup" competition, a global event for student entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the Center of Excellence, in collaboration with "Noon Academy" as a strategic knowledge partner, will offer AI skills programs to help individuals from all sectors enhance their understanding of these modern technologies.

With artificial intelligence at the forefront of the technological revolution, Microsoft is gearing up to support Saudi Arabia's transformation into a leading global center for digital innovation and progress. Turki Badrees emphasizes that Microsoft's commitment extends beyond technology; it's about unlocking the Kingdom's full potential through innovation, sustainability, and education, envisioning a future where technology is a cornerstone of growth and development in Saudi Arabia.