In a powerful move aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Aramco’s venture capital arm, Wa’ed Ventures, has committed $100 million toward investments in artificial intelligence (AI) startups. This ambitious push aims to transform the Kingdom into a global AI competitor and help build the infrastructure needed to support an AI-driven economy. With the race for AI dominance in the Middle East heating up, Saudi Arabia’s investment places it on a promising path to contend with global tech hubs.
A Focus on Early-Stage AI Startups
The funding is specifically earmarked for early-stage AI startups, and Wa’ed Ventures has built a dedicated advisory board to support this mission. Composed of seasoned professionals from industry leaders like Meta and Amazon, this team will guide the investment strategy and scout for potential high-impact startups. Over the next three years, Wa’ed Ventures plans to deploy its funds strategically to foster local talent, as well as bring global AI experts into the Kingdom.
“This investment will not only incentivize local entrepreneurs but also support the localization of global talent,” said Anas Algahtani, acting CEO of Wa’ed Ventures. This move signals Saudi Arabia’s commitment not only to innovation but also to nurturing a strong local ecosystem that can contribute to its AI objectives.
Strategic AI Investments Aligned with Vision 2030
Wa’ed Ventures’ latest commitments add to its growing portfolio of AI investments. Earlier this year, the fund invested $15 million in South Korean chipmaker Rebellions Inc., a company specializing in AI processing hardware, which is critical for advanced machine learning applications. It also joined rounds for AI platform aiXplain and Tenderd, a Peter Thiel-backed AI company that aids in operational efficiency.
Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious economic diversification plan, places heavy emphasis on tech and data-driven industries to move the economy beyond oil dependence. By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to rank among the top 15 countries in AI. The latest funding announcement shows Wa’ed Ventures’ focus on laying a strong foundation this decade, with plans to leverage this ecosystem globally in the following years.
AI and the Regional Race: Saudi Arabia vs. UAE
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are leading an AI arms race in the Middle East, each striving to be the region’s tech superpower. Both countries are investing in data centers and infrastructure to attract global talent and build sustainable tech ecosystems. While Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 outlines clear ambitions for AI, the UAE has established its own National AI Strategy 2031, targeting sectors like healthcare, logistics, and education for AI-driven transformation.
This competitive atmosphere has accelerated the development of essential infrastructure, creating fertile ground for tech-based businesses to thrive and attract AI talent from around the world.
Why Aramco’s AI Investment Matters
Aramco’s decision to focus on AI startups through Wa’ed Ventures demonstrates a broader trend among energy giants to diversify into tech-driven industries. By building partnerships with emerging AI startups, Aramco is capitalizing on opportunities that may not only bolster Saudi Arabia’s AI ambitions but also create new revenue streams in areas beyond oil and gas.
This trend reflects a larger global movement where traditional industries are pivoting toward AI and machine learning to stay competitive in a data-centered economy. Through this $100 million investment, Wa’ed Ventures is helping position Saudi Arabia as a major player in global AI, providing economic, social, and technological benefits.
Looking Ahead: Saudi Arabia’s AI Future
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to AI investments signals a long-term dedication to innovation and economic diversification. As it aims to attract world-class talent, the country has become a dynamic hub for early-stage AI developments. With the continued backing of Wa’ed Ventures and ambitious goals for Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is poised to make a significant impact in the global AI market.
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