Al-Rabdi Reveals: The World Generates 400 Million Terabytes of Data Daily, Engaging Over 5 Billion Users on Digital Platforms

His Excellency Al-Rabdi bin Fahd Al-Rabdi, President of the National Data Office at the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), affirmed that data and artificial intelligence (AI) have become the primary drivers of the media sector. He highlighted that the world produces approximately 400 million terabytes of data daily, with more than 5 billion users interacting with this data across digital platforms. This exponential growth has opened new frontiers in the media industry, prompting over 78% of media organizations to integrate AI technologies into their operations. Speaking during a panel discussion at the Saudi Media Forum 2025, held at the Hilton Riyadh, Al-Rabdi stated that advanced technologies are now responsible for generating approximately 85% of media content. He also noted that the global AI market in media and entertainment is projected to exceed $99 billion by 2030. These figures, he emphasized, underscore that leveraging AI and data technologies in media is no longer an option but a necessity dictated by the evolving landscape. Al-Rabdi outlined SDAIA’s pivotal role in leading these digital transformations, aligning with its vision to translate the full potential of data and AI into reality. He reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia is committed to establishing itself as a global leader in AI and data-driven economies in line with Vision 2030, under the leadership of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister, and Chairman of SDAIA. He further highlighted Saudi Arabia’s achievements in AI and data governance, stating that the Kingdom ranked 6th globally in the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI) for 2024. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is recognized among the top 14 nations globally and first in the region in the Global AI Index. The UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment Report (RAM) also commended SDAIA as a world-class model that seamlessly integrates data and artificial intelligence. Al-Rabdi emphasized the strong collaboration between SDAIA and the Ministry of Media, as well as other relevant entities, in driving digital innovation and AI-powered transformation in the media sector. This includes various agreements and strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Media, the Saudi Broadcasting Authority, and the Saudi Press Agency Academy. He noted that SDAIA has launched numerous training programs and initiatives to enhance national capabilities in data and AI technologies within the media industry. These efforts include the first-ever AI Generative Applications Bootcamp for Media, as well as a specialized leadership training program for executives at the Ministry of Media and affiliated institutions. Moreover, in collaboration with the Ministry of Media, SDAIA introduced the Saudi Media Innovation Bootcamp. These initiatives, Al-Rabdi stated, contribute to SDAIA’s broader goal of training 1 million Saudis in AI-related fields and equipping 40% of the national workforce with AI skills by 2030. During the session, Al-Rabdi also underscored SDAIA’s responsibility in data governance and accessibility. He highlighted that the authority has developed a comprehensive regulatory framework for data management, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in data governance. This includes enacting various policies, regulations, and tools to enhance data sovereignty and governance. Additionally, SDAIA has launched several national platforms to facilitate access to vital data resources. To ensure the safe and ethical deployment of AI technologies, SDAIA has issued the AI Ethics Principles Framework, reinforcing responsible AI usage while mitigating potential risks. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has published 65 AI-related policies on the OECD Global AI Observatory, securing the 3rd global ranking in AI policy development. Al-Rabdi concluded by reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to AI and data excellence, positioning the Kingdom at the forefront of global digital transformation.