Saudi Digital Economy Jumps to 16% of GDP in 2024

Latest official data show that the Saudi digital economy continued its strong expansion in 2024, raising its share of GDP to 16% from 15.6% in 2023—highlighting the accelerating pace of digital transformation and its growing role in diversifying non-oil income.

The Saudi digital economy is structured across three tiers: the core digital economy contributed 2.7% of GDP, the narrow digital economy 2.4%, and the broad digital economy captured the largest share at 10.9%, reflecting policy focus on scaling digitalization across sectors.

ICT Sector Performance

The information and communications technology sector generated operating revenues of SAR 249.8 billion in 2024, led by wired and wireless communications at SAR 133.9 billion, followed by computer programming activities at SAR 31.1 billion.

Operating expenses reached SAR 122.2 billion, while employee compensation totaled SAR 29.2 billion.

Digital Trade

Imports of ICT goods rose to SAR 67.9 billion, up 23.5% year on year, while exports and re-exports surged to SAR 25.8 billion, marking 118% growth—signaling stronger international competitiveness.

These indicators confirm that the Saudi digital economy has become a cornerstone for non-oil GDP growth and for positioning the Kingdom as a leading regional and global digital hub.