In Deloitte’s 2026 Digital Trends report, the numbers revealed a surprise: two-thirds of Saudis (66%) use generative AI daily. Not just an experiment, but actual daily use. The number jumped from 49% last year, an increase of 17% in just one year. This means that AI has become part of the daily routine of the average Saudi citizen, not just for specialists.
What exactly do Saudis do with AI?
The report, which included 1,000 people from 18 to 50 years old, clarified that the uses are diverse:
- 51% use it to search for information — instead of traditional Google
- 45% use it for work tasks
- 44% to generate ideas and discussions
- 42% for translation between languages
Users have become dependent on tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini in their daily lives, whether at work, study, or even shopping.
How did this reflect on the Saudi market?
Saudi Arabia is not just adopting technology — it’s leading it. The 2026 announcement of the “Year of Artificial Intelligence” is not just a slogan, it’s a strategic decision. The Saudi government is investing more than $20 billion in data centers and AI infrastructure, in cooperation with tech giants like Microsoft and Google.
The report revealed that the Saudi consumer has become more aware:
- 65% add additional services with their internet subscription (such as WiFi boosters)
- 41% demand restrictions on social media for those over 16 years old
- From Gen Z, 66% support imposing greater control over content
This indicates that the Saudi consumer is not only smart in using technology but also aware of its risks.
From the beginning to the daily routine
Last year, many people were trying ChatGPT out of curiosity. Today, there is a clear shift from experimentation to practical use. The report says that advanced activities such as programming and content creation have stabilized, meaning users have become focused on practical and useful applications, not just experiments.
Emmanuel Durou, Head of Technology at Deloitte Middle East, said: “The speed at which AI has entered daily life is astonishing, and it is fundamentally changing how consumers interact with technology.”
Important points
- 🔹 AI is not a luxury — it has become an essential tool in work, education, and life
- 🔹 Saudi Arabia is first globally in the 2026 ICT Development Index
- 🔹 Digital awareness is increasing — people are demanding better protection for privacy
- 🔹 Government investment in AI enhances the kingdom’s position as a global tech hub
- 🔹 The new generation (Gen Z) is the most supportive of controlling harmful content
❓ Frequently asked questions about AI in Saudi Arabia
Who needs AI in their life?
Everyone! From the student searching for information, to the employee preparing reports, to the business owner improving customer service. Even housewives use AI in organizing recipes and budgets.
Where can AI be used?
Everywhere! From homes and schools to workplaces and public services. AI can be used in various aspects of life, making it an integral part of daily activities.
How much does it cost to use artificial intelligence?
Initially, most tools are free — ChatGPT is free, Google Gemini is free, Microsoft’s Copilot is free. For professional use, subscriptions start from $20 per month (around 75 riyals) for paid versions.
How long does it take to learn how to use artificial intelligence?
Minutes! User interfaces are simple, you write your question and get the answer. But to use it professionally at work, it can take two weeks to a month to learn how to formulate commands (Prompt Engineering) effectively.
How do I start with artificial intelligence?
Very easy: open a browser, type chat.openai.com, register with an email account, and start asking. Or use Google Gemini and the integrated Copilot assistant in Windows. Start with a simple question: “Summarize this article for me” or “Translate this sentence” or “Help me write an email”.
