Saudi Arabia AI Automation Adoption Reaches 63% in 2025

Nearly two-thirds of Saudi organizations intend to implement formal automation strategies within the next year, according to new research that highlights the Kingdom’s accelerating digital transformation efforts. The findings reflect growing momentum toward Vision 2030’s technology adoption goals.

Key Takeaways

63% of Saudi organizations plan to launch automation strategies in the next 7–12 months
Survey covered more than 500 Saudi organizations with over 250 employees
26% have already automated processes across multiple business areas
86% view automation as essential groundwork before implementing AI solutions

Saudi Arabia AI Automation Adoption Shows Varied Progress

A survey conducted by Nintex, a process automation platform provider, reveals that Saudi Arabia AI automation adoption is progressing at different speeds across sectors. While 26% of organizations have already automated multiple business areas, 28% remain in exploratory stages, according to the research.

The data indicates that half of surveyed organizations now design AI and automation initiatives together from the outset. Additionally, 29% report that AI has already transformed key workflows, while 26% are experiencing early-stage improvements.

Efficiency and Cost Reduction Drive Automation Priorities

Organizations pursuing automation in Saudi Arabia prioritize three main objectives, according to the survey findings. More than half (53%) seek to reduce manual work, while 47% focus on improved process visibility and reporting. Cost optimization ranks equally at 47% among strategic benefits.

“Saudi businesses clearly recognize the value of AI and automation,” said Samir Akel, Regional Vice President at Nintex. However, he noted that success requires “the right conditions, skills, talent, time, and robust process foundations.”

Automation Viewed as Foundation for AI Implementation

The research highlights a sequential approach to technology adoption among Saudi organizations. A significant majority (86%) believe automation must precede AI application to business processes. Furthermore, 62% indicate that combining AI and automation delivers stronger business outcomes than either technology alone.

This structured methodology aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on sustainable digital transformation rather than short-term technological fixes. The approach suggests Saudi organizations are building foundational capabilities before advancing to more complex AI deployments.

What’s Next

The survey findings position Saudi Arabia’s private sector as increasingly prepared for large-scale automation and AI adoption. However, the variation in readiness levels suggests organizations will require different types of support—from exploratory guidance to enterprise scaling capabilities—as they advance their digital transformation journeys over the coming year.