Saudi Arabia: Industrial automation, artificial intelligence and technology-driven pilgrim management will take center stage at the Global IoT Congress this week, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s push for digital transformation. 

The event, which begins Oct. 21 and is backed by the government’s communications regulator, will gather more than 70 speakers to showcase how the Internet of Things is being embedded into the national infrastructure. 

The push is part of the Vision 2030 plan to build a knowledge-based economy and open new sectors for investment. 

“The three-day event is all set to unite the Kingdom’s foremost government leaders, technology visionaries, and academic experts under one roof, each driving Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation agenda forward,” stated a press release. 

Being held under the patronage of Haytham Al-Ohali, acting governor of the CST, the event is organized by the Saudi Internet of Things Association and backed by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission. 

“Among the most prominent speakers are from the Transport General Authority, highlighting IoT’s role in sustainable and data-driven mobility,” the release added. 

Speakers from the Saudi Data and AI Authority will highlight how national policies are guiding responsible AI-IoT integration in the Kingdom, while Ministry of Hajj and Umrah representatives will discuss how connected technologies are enhancing pilgrim experiences and crowd management. 

The organizer emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s IoT landscape is evolving not only through corporate innovation but also via direct government support and cross-sector regulation. 

At the heart of the congress, the release added, are major technology sponsors shaping the Kingdom’s digital future, including iot squared, a joint venture between STC Group and the Public Investment Fund, whose speakers will address industrial IoT, digital transformation, and cybersecurity.