Microsoft partners with regional businesses to accelerate digital transformation

The companies will unite to accelerate digitalization across Saudi Arabia. File.
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Updated 02 November 2023
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Microsoft partners with regional businesses to accelerate digital transformation

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s stc Group, majority owned by the Public Investment Fund, has announced the expansion of its strategic partnership with global tech giant Microsoft. 

To advance innovation across the Kingdom, the companies will unite to deploy cutting-edge technology solutions that will accelerate the digitalization journey of organizations across various industries in Saudi Arabia, according to a press statement. 

The partnership agreement was formalized during Microsoft CEO and Chairman Satya Nadella’s visit to Saudi Arabia on Nov. 1.

“Our strategic partnership with Microsoft marks a defining moment in the history of digital transformation for both stc Group and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Olayan Alwetaid, CEO of stc Group. 

He added: “Together with Microsoft, we will work to bring the latest technologies to Saudi Arabia and help businesses of all sizes to embrace digital transformation, advance economic diversification, and create a more vibrant and prosperous future for our country.”

The press statement noted that this strategic collaboration will help stc subsidiaries explore new markets, develop disruptive business models, and bring innovative products and services. 

“Our aim is to empower businesses of all sizes and industries with tailored digital solutions that enable them to innovate and solve their unique challenges to drive equitable business growth,” said Ralph Haupter, president of Microsoft Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Agthia Group inks deal with Microsoft

Abu Dhabi-based food and beverage company Agthia Group signed a memorandum of understanding with Microsoft to accelerate its digital transformation journey by embracing advanced technologies like artificial intelligence. 

Under the deal, Agthia Group will also aim to leverage MS Dynamics Retail and Point of Sales solutions to establish digital stores for the group. 

“Our work with Microsoft will play a pivotal role in Agthia’s ongoing digital transformation, utilizing new tools to navigate the digital landscape and identify opportunities for market expansion, operational excellence and commercial success, while accelerating innovation and responsible, sustainable business practices throughout the FMCG value chai,” said Alan Smith, Group CEO of Agthia Group. 

Vanderlei Santos, chief digital officer of Agthia Group, said that the partnership with Microsoft will help provide its customers with a personalized experience. 

“We are delighted to embark on this transformative journey with Microsoft that enables us to offer our customers a truly personalized experience, and we look forward to providing unparalleled value to our customers and employees, leveraging Microsoft’s experience and comprehensive suite of technologies,” said Santos. 


Saudi Arabia ranks 2nd globally in digital government, World Bank 2025 index shows


Updated 18 December 2025
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Saudi Arabia ranks 2nd globally in digital government, World Bank 2025 index shows


WASHINGTON: Saudi Arabia has achieved a historic milestone by securing second place worldwide in the 2025 GovTech Maturity Index released by the World Bank.

The announcement was made on Thursday during a press conference in Washington, DC, which evaluated 197 countries.

The Kingdom excelled across all sub-indicators, earning a 99.64 percent overall score and placing it in the “Very Advanced” category.

It achieved a score of 99.92 percent in the Core Government Systems Index, 99.90 percent in the Public Service Delivery Index, 99.30 percent in the Digital Citizen Engagement Index, and 99.50 percent in the Government Digital Transformation Enablers Index, reflecting some of the highest global scores.

This includes outstanding performance in digital infrastructure, core government systems, digital service delivery, and citizen engagement, among the highest globally.

Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Suwaiyan, governor of the Digital Government Authority, attributed this achievement to the unwavering support of the Saudi leadership, strong intergovernmental collaboration, and effective public-private partnerships.

He highlighted national efforts over recent years to re-engineer government services and build an advanced digital infrastructure, which enabled Saudi Arabia to reach this global standing.

Al-Suwaiyan emphasized that the Digital Government Authority continues to drive innovation and enhance the quality of digital services, in line with Saudi Vision 2030, supporting the national economy and consolidating the Kingdom’s transformation goals.

The 2025 GTMI data reflects Saudi Arabia’s excellence across key areas, including near-perfect scores in core government systems, public service delivery, digital citizen engagement, and government digital transformation enablers. This balanced performance places the Kingdom firmly in the “Grade A” classification for very advanced countries, demonstrating the maturity of its digital government ecosystem.

Saudi Arabia’s progress in the index has been remarkable: from 49th place in the 2020 edition, to third in 2022, and now second in 2025, confirming its status as a global leader in digital transformation and innovation.

The achievement also reflects the Kingdom’s focus on putting people at the center of digital transformation, enhancing user experience, improving government efficiency, and integrating artificial intelligence and emerging technologies across public services.