How the convergence of AI and 5G is transforming Saudi Arabia’s smart technologies

A man tries the Saudi Telecom virtual reality glasses on a 5G connected car at the Mobile World Congress, the world's biggest mobile fair, on February 26, 2018 in Barcelona. (AFP/File)
Short Url
Updated 20 September 2024
Follow

How the convergence of AI and 5G is transforming Saudi Arabia’s smart technologies

  • The Kingdom is harnessing the power of AI and 5G to usher in a new generation of devices that go beyond conventional smartphones
  • Saudi telecom giants are embracing AI-driven 5G tech to optimize networks, boost efficiency and enhance customer experience

DAMMAM: As Saudi Arabia rapidly evolves into a global technology hub, the convergence of artificial intelligence and 5G technology is playing a critical role in reshaping the Kingdom’s digital landscape.

The fusion of these cutting-edge technologies is transforming devices beyond conventional smartphones, creating smarter systems that enhance industries ranging from telecommunications to manufacturing and healthcare.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to digital transformation, outlined in its Vision 2030 initiative, has propelled the Kingdom toward large-scale adoption of AI-driven technologies, supported by the rollout of 5G networks.

With AI’s predictive power and 5G’s ultra-fast connectivity, the Kingdom is poised to become a leader in deploying next-generation smart devices that transcend traditional communication tools.

AI algorithms now have the ability to anticipate user needs, infer intent and automate tasks, creating seamless user experiences and improving productivity.

According to a recent PwC report called “The Smarter Phone,” AI-enabled smartphones are already integrating with daily activities, leveraging predictive analytics to automate routine processes and provide real-time solutions.

AI-powered assistants, image recognition and voice command systems are increasingly becoming integral parts of mobile devices, enabling more intuitive user interfaces and features such as facial recognition, automated photo sorting and smart scheduling.

This evolution of mobile technology not only improves productivity at work but also frees up time for leisure.

As Saudi Arabia embraces this digital transformation, its telecommunications sector is at the forefront of integrating AI into 5G-powered networks.

“The country’s commitment to advanced technologies and its focus on digital transformation highlights the importance of AI, both globally and locally,” Raghav Sahgal, president of Nokia’s Cloud Network Services Group, told Arab News.




Raghav Sahgal, president of Nokia’s Cloud Network Services Group. (SUpplied)

At the heart of this transformation is 5G technology, which offers faster speeds, lower latency and greater connectivity capacity than its predecessor, 4G.

Its ability to transfer data at rates of up to 10 gigabytes per second allows for seamless communication between devices, supporting emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles, smart cities and the internet of things.

When combined with AI, 5G enables the real-time processing of vast amounts of data, making way for new applications that were previously unimaginable.




5G technology offers faster speeds, lower latency and greater connectivity capacity than its predecessor, 4G. (Supplied)

One of the most transformative aspects of 5G in Saudi Arabia is its potential to digitize industries.

“5G is enabling the digitization of industries by offering deterministic and reliable connections that are critical for sectors such as petroleum, gas and manufacturing,” said Sahgal.

By leveraging 5G’s speed and reliability, companies in these industries can improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime and optimize processes through AI-powered predictive analytics.

Nokia has played a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s AI-driven telecom revolution. Its AVA platform (Automation, Visualization, Analytics) bundles together its software portfolio, allowing telecommunications providers to secure, automate and monetize their 5G networks.




Nokia’s AVA platform combines AI and automation to enhance telecom performance, security and reliability. (Supplied)

The platform’s AI-driven analytics and automation tools provide telecom operators with actionable insights to enhance network performance, security and reliability. This is particularly important as Saudi Arabia’s telecom companies continue to expand their 5G infrastructure.

Telecommunications giants such as Saudi Telecom Company, Mobily and Zain KSA have embraced AI-driven systems to optimize 5G networks as well as enhance the user experience.

STC has implemented Nokia’s AVA platform to automate and optimize its 5G networks. By using AI, the company can monitor and predict network performance, addressing potential issues before they impact customers.

DID YOUKNOW?

AI and 5G are powering Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, accelerating digital transformation across industries like manufacturing, telecom and healthcare.

5G enables data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps, allowing seamless device communication in areas such as IoT and autonomous vehicles.

Saudi telecoms are adopting AI for network optimization — STC, Mobily, and Zain KSA enhance customer experiences using AI-driven solutions.

Nokia’s AVA platform combines AI and automation to enhance telecom performance, security and reliability in Saudi Arabia’s 5G networks.

Mobily has integrated AI into its 5G networks, using it to manage network resources efficiently and provide real-time service improvements.

Zain KSA, another key player in the Kingdom’s telecommunications sector, utilizes AI to manage 5G network slicing, a feature that allows telecom providers to tailor services to different user cases, ensuring optimal performance for each.

Indeed, in addition to network optimization, AI is transforming customer service within Saudi Arabia’s telecom industry. AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots provide personalized, real-time support, helping customers resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

AI is also being used to enhance security, with applications such as fraud detection and network protection playing crucial roles in safeguarding users’ data and privacy

Opinion

This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)

As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in AI and 5G technologies, the convergence of these innovations is expected to have far-reaching implications for the Kingdom’s economy.

AI-enabled devices will not only enhance consumer experiences, but will also contribute to the Kingdom’s broader economic goals by improving efficiency, productivity and innovation across various industries.

The convergence of AI and 5G in Saudi Arabia is creating a new era of smart devices that go far beyond the traditional smartphone. These technologies are driving the digital transformation, enabling the Kingdom to build a more connected, efficient and innovative future.
 

 


Global leaders draft ambitious climate finance deal ahead of COP29

As the countdown to COP29 continues, the Azerbaijani presidency is pushing for a balanced outcome.
Updated 6 sec ago
Follow

Global leaders draft ambitious climate finance deal ahead of COP29

RIYADH: Global leaders are drafting an ambitious climate finance deal to be finalized at the 29th Conference of the Parties, or COP29, as Azerbaijan’s presidency leads efforts to resolve critical gaps ahead of the November summit.

A draft negotiating text will be published “imminently,” following a series of high-level meetings in Baku last week, according to the COP29 presidency team.

It outlines a plan that could mobilize trillions of dollars in support for developing nations.

Central to the talks was the New Collective Quantified Goal, or NCQG, on climate finance, which aims to replace the existing $100 billion pledge that has long been deemed insufficient.

Azerbaijan’s Lead Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, stating in a release that the funding needed to address climate change was “in the space of trillions” of dollars.

However, negotiations are steering towards a more realistic expectation of public sector contributions, which are likely to reach “hundreds of billions” annually.

The NCQG is critical in ensuring developing nations, particularly small island developing states and the least developed countries, receive the support they need to build resilience and reduce emissions.

President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, addressing participants at the pre-COP conference, urged global leaders to move beyond blame and focus on collective action.

“As we are entering into the final stage of preparations for COP29, I call on you to engage constructively and in good faith for the sake of humanity,” Aliyev said.

“While states have common but differentiated responsibilities, they should put aside disagreements, stop blaming each other, and find common ground.

“We cannot afford to waste time on defining who is guilty for global warming, or who caused more environmental harm.”

These remarks reflect the urgency felt ahead of COP29, especially in light of the Paris Agreement’s goal to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

COP events have served as critical platforms for advancing this agenda since 2015, but the most recent Global Stocktake at COP28 revealed that the world is not on track to meet its targets.

Azerbaijan’s COP29 President-Designate, Mukhtar Babayev, highlighted the importance of addressing unresolved issues before November.

“We have done well to narrow down options, and the possible shapes of landing zones are coming into view. But we can clearly see the divides that the parties still need to bridge,” Babayev said.

He said that ministers must return to their capitals to secure the political mandates needed to push the negotiations forward.

“There is no excuse for anyone to arrive at COP29 without clear political support to make progress, as we urgently work to turn this draft into a deal,” he said.

The talks in Baku also explored the qualitative aspects of the NCQG, such as transparency, accessibility and accountability.

These elements are seen as vital to building trust among nations and ensuring the effective use of funds.

The pre-COP conference marked a crucial step in preparing a draft negotiating text for the new finance goal, which is expected to be published in the coming days.

This draft will set the stage for final negotiations at COP29, where a comprehensive climate finance package is anticipated.

In addition to finance, the discussions addressed broader initiatives such as climate transparency and energy resilience.

A new report, co-authored with the International Renewable Energy Agency, or IRENA, and other partners, was launched during the conference.

It tracks progress on energy goals set at COP28, particularly in relation to energy storage, with the COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge aiming to boost installed capacity to 1,500 GW by 2030 — six times the level recorded in 2022.

As the countdown to COP29 continues, the Azerbaijani presidency is pushing for a balanced outcome that not only delivers on finance but also reinforces the commitments made under the Paris Agreement.


Riyadh mayor, South Korean officials discuss infrastructure, urban planning

Updated 14 October 2024
Follow

Riyadh mayor, South Korean officials discuss infrastructure, urban planning

  • Visit has aimed to strengthen ties between Riyadh and South Korean cities

RIYADH: Riyadh Mayor Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf concluded his visit to South Korea to establish international partnerships, gain insights into urban development, and enhance quality of life through technology.

The visit included meetings to strengthen ties between Riyadh and South Korean cities, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

A memorandum of understanding was signed with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to enhance cooperation in smart city management, sustainable urban planning, and infrastructure development.

This agreement follows a Saudi Cabinet decision authorizing Prince Faisal to negotiate a draft MoU with the Seoul Metropolitan Government regarding urban management and operations.

The visit began with a meeting between Prince Faisal and South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, followed by discussions with Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Sangwoo Park on infrastructure development, urban planning, and expertise exchange.

Prince Faisal also met with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon to sign the MoU and with Gyeonggi Province Gov. Kim Dong-yeon to discuss sustainable urban development and municipal services.

At the global Mayors Forum during Smart Life Week in Seoul, the mayor highlighted Riyadh’s future initiatives. He attended the opening ceremony and visited an exhibition showcasing digital transformation and intelligent cities.

Prince Faisal toured the Seoul Transport Operation and Information Service to learn about intelligent transportation systems. He also met with leading Korean companies, including Naver and Samsung, and visited the Samsung museum.

During his visit, the mayor met with Saudi students in South Korea, encouraging them to excel academically to support Saudi Vision 2030.


Riyadh forum concludes with more than 290 schools honored

Updated 14 October 2024
Follow

Riyadh forum concludes with more than 290 schools honored

  • Misk Schools first to receive accreditation at National Forum for School Excellence

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Education and Training Evaluation Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, concluded the National Forum for School Excellence, also known as Excellence 2024, in Riyadh on Monday.

The forum, which celebrated over 290 schools for their achievements, highlighted Misk Schools as the first to receive accreditation under new national evaluation standards.

The event, which was held under the patronage of the Minister of Education Yousef Al-Benyan and commission chairman Khalid Al-Sabti, showcased the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education as part of Saudi Vision 2030.

Participants included educational leaders, university deans, and company representatives, as well as principals and directors of schools from across Saudi Arabia.

At the forefront of the event was Misk Schools, which became the first institution in the country to receive accreditation from the commission.

Steffen Sommer, director general of the academic institute, told Arab News: “This accreditation reflects the dedication and hard work of our staff and students.

“We are proud to set a new standard for educational excellence and look forward to continuing our journey of growth and innovation.”

Nada Al-Hegali, girls’ school principal at Misk, spoke to Arab News about the challenges faced during the process, saying: “The challenge was relocating to a new campus amid the accreditation process.”

Al-Hegali went on to describe how the team provided invaluable support, and the students showed their resilience during the move.  

The Excellence 2024 forum recognized schools based on results from external evaluations. Public, private, and international schools were all recognized for their contributions to raising educational standards.

The event also saw the signing of accreditation agreements between the commission, through its excellence center, and 18 schools, further cementing the importance of collaboration in driving the Kingdom’s educational reform.

Al-Benyan spoke of his optimism about the future of Saudi education, noting that the forum would serve as a catalyst for schools to embrace competition and excellence.

He added: “These recognitions are not just an acknowledgment of past achievements but a push for continued improvement in our education system.”

Al-Sabti echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the importance of external evaluation in fostering a culture of quality.

He added: “The Excellence 2024 forum provides a national platform to strengthen the principles of educational excellence, ensuring that Saudi schools continue to align with international standards.”

As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward fulfilling Vision 2030, the recognition of over 290 schools not only highlights the progress made so far, but also sets the stage for future improvements.

Schools like Misk, with its focus on innovation, are paving the way for others to follow.


Saudi foreign minister meets with WEF chief Klaus Schwab

Updated 14 October 2024
Follow

Saudi foreign minister meets with WEF chief Klaus Schwab

RIYADH: Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Monday received Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab in Riyadh, state news agency SPA reported.

The officials discussed opportunities to boost cooperation and topics of common interest.


Experience global cultures as Riyadh Season launches 3 zones with exciting events

Updated 14 October 2024
Follow

Experience global cultures as Riyadh Season launches 3 zones with exciting events

  • Boulevard World expands with new cultural zones, while Boulevard City introduces thrilling interactive adventures
  • Al-Suwaidi Park launches with a community spotlight, starting with Indian Week

RIYADH: Riyadh Season 2024 has announced the opening of three zones for the public: Boulevard World, Boulevard City, and Al-Suwaidi Park. These zones will host a series of weeks dedicated to communities.

Boulevard World will open its doors to the public daily from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. This season has seen several updates, including a 30 percent increase in zone size and the addition of five new zones: Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Iran, Africa, and Courchevel.

With 22 zones representing various cultures worldwide, it boasts 300 restaurants and cafes and more than 890 shops, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The zones representing Egypt, Spain and Italy in Boulevard World have also been upgraded with 21 new activities suitable for different age groups, including theatrical performances and showcases from several countries, enhancing their appeal as an entertainment destination.

On Saturday night, the season’s opening was held at the Kingdom Arena with boxing matches, musical performances by hip-hop moguls Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliott, and Ciara. A member of the audience was selected to win a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, presented by General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Al-Sheikh.

This year, Boulevard City at Riyadh Season introduces new entertainment experiences, such as PUBG Mobile, where visitors can join a team and engage in immersive laser battles, competing to be the last one standing.

Visitors can also dive into the mysterious and exciting world of Detective Conan, where they become detectives in an effort to solve puzzles, uncover crime secrets, and find hidden treasures. This experience includes multiple stages filled with interactive challenges that require critical thinking and analysis.

Fans of family adventures and fantasy can embark on imaginative journeys with Bluey and Bingo World.

The Five Nights at Freddy’s experience returns for horror enthusiasts with a new, more thrilling, and challenging version. Visitors will confront high levels of fear as they attempt to survive the dangers surrounding them within the eerie shopping center.

These new experiences make Boulevard City an unmissable destination within the Riyadh Season events this year, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in exceptional adventures that blend excitement, fantasy, and horror.

Al-Suwaidi Park, one of Riyadh Season 2024’s most attractive destinations, spans 140,000 sq m and will host events from 4 p.m. to midnight. The series of community-dedicated weeks starts with Indian Week.

Indian Week will feature performances by renowned artists, impressive shows, traditional Indian cuisine, and opportunities to purchase clothing reflecting India’s rich cultural diversity.