Riyadh witnessed a global tech event a few days ago, the Global AI Show Riyadh 2026, which brought together experts and innovators from around the world. The most prominent topic discussed was a promising new technology: “Agentic AI” or AI Agents. This technology is not just about chatbots or ordinary assistants; it represents a qualitative leap in the world of artificial intelligence.
What is Agentic AI?
Agentic AI is an intelligent system capable of acting autonomously. Instead of asking it a question and receiving an answer, you give it a large task, and it plans and executes it on its own. For example, if you tell it, “Book a trip to Riyadh, a car, and a hotel,” it searches for options, compares prices, and makes the reservations for you.
The key difference is that an AI Agent does not wait for step-by-step instructions; it has the ability to plan, make decisions, and execute complex tasks that require multiple steps. This technology represents an entirely new generation of artificial intelligence.
Why is it important for Saudi Arabia now?
Saudi Arabia has declared 2026 the Year of Artificial Intelligence, and this is more than just a slogan. The Kingdom is investing over $9 billion in AI infrastructure. The company HUMAIN (affiliated with the Public Investment Fund) is responsible for developing and operating advanced AI technologies in the Kingdom. Its partnerships with tech giants like NVIDIA, Google, and Aramco aim to accelerate the adoption of these technologies.
Agentic AI can support Vision 2030 in several areas:
• Government services: Imagine intelligent agents that handle your transactions from home without you lifting a finger.
• Healthcare: Intelligent assistants that help doctors with diagnosis and treatment suggestions.
• Education: Personalized educational agents tailored to each student’s level.
• Business: Agents that manage inventory, analyze markets, and communicate with customers automatically.
How does it differ from the ChatGPT we know?
Regular ChatGPT answers your questions but requires continuous guidance. An AI Agent, however, can handle tasks like, “I want to open a company in Saudi Arabia; what are the procedures?” It gathers information from the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Investment, and the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority, then compiles a comprehensive plan with steps and links for you.
This technology integrates multiple capabilities:
• Long-term memory: Remembers your previous conversations.
• Tool use: Can browse the internet, send emails, and edit files.
• Multi-step planning: Breaks down large tasks into smaller steps and executes them.
• Learning from mistakes:
If one method fails, they try another.
Key Points
- Saudi Arabia ranks first globally in the Harvard Government AI Readiness Index.
- The Global AI Show 2026 was held in Riyadh, featuring over 100 speakers from 30 countries.
- The Public Investment Fund allocated a massive budget to HUMAIN for developing AI infrastructure.
- Saudi leadership in AI governance led to participation in UN meetings in Geneva.
- International partnerships: HUMAIN with Canadian Cohere, Google, and NVIDIA to accelerate innovation.
❓ FAQs
Who needs AI Agents?
Anyone or any entity dealing with repetitive or complex tasks. Companies need them for process automation, employees to speed up task completion, and government entities to improve services. Even individuals can benefit from them for trip planning, budget management, and self-learning.
Where is AI Agents technology used?
In Saudi Arabia, its applications include the Absher platform for smart government services, the banking sector for 24/7 customer service, the healthcare sector in hospitals like King Fahad Medical City, and the education sector in Saudi universities. Globally, companies like Microsoft (Copilot Agents) and Google (Vertex AI Agent Builder) use it.
How much does this technology cost?
Costs vary. Some free AI Agents tools are available (e.g., Google AI Studio for individuals). For businesses, subscriptions start at $20 per month (around 75 SAR) for basic tasks, reaching thousands of SAR for integrated solutions. Saudi investment in HUMAIN exceeds $40 billion to develop infrastructure and make the technology accessible to all.
How long does it take to learn to use AI Agents?
Using ready-made agents (like ChatGPT Tasks or Microsoft Copilot) is very easy, and anyone can use them immediately. Developing custom agents for companies takes two weeks to two months, depending on task complexity. Free courses are available on the SDAIA platform and Dorob educational platform to explain the basics.
How do I get started with AI Agents?
Easy! Start with these steps:
1. Try ChatGPT Tasks (available with a Plus subscription).
2. Use Microsoft Copilot in the Edge browser.
3. Download the Perplexity app, which can search and plan.
4. Follow SDAIA (Saudi Data and AI Authority) accounts to stay updated on developments in Saudi Arabia.
5. Register for free workshops offered by the Digital Government Authority.
Summary: The AI Agent (AI Agents) is the future of technology that will change the way we work and live. Saudi Arabia, thanks to Vision 2030 and its massive investments, is in a leading position to lead this revolution. Don’t wait, start today and explore this technology that is changing everything!
