Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) concluded its participation at LEAP24, which was held in Riyadh from 4-7 March under the theme “Into New Worlds”. The conference witnessed the participation of 1000 speaker from global tech, AI and digital transformation companies, leaders and decision makers, to discuss important topics in entrepreneurship and the best practices to support investment in technical and innovative fields.
H.E. Dr. Mohammed Saud AlTamimi delivered the opening remarks of the third day of LEAP24, commending the leading investments announced in the Kingdom by pioneering tech companies, which reflected on enabling leading technologies and supporting startups and entrepreneurs in the Kingdom. Moreover, Mr. Frank Salzgeber, Acting Deputy Governor of Space Sector, launched the Space Track on the Orbital Stage, which is a platform to showcase the Kingdom’s leading aspirations and latest trends in Space, aiming to inspire and enrich the public with discussions in Space disciplines, trends and innovation.
CST announced “Mobily" as the winner of the Customer Experience Award 2023, which is presented to top one service provider in customer satisfaction based on certain criteria. Moreover, CST announced “STC” as the winner of The Platinum Game Operator for 2023, which was presented to the best performing service providers for e-gaming in the Kingdom. These prizes stem from CST commitment in enhancing the quality of services, improving user experience and increasing transparency in the market by sharing data results and indicators.
In addition, CST signed a number of MoUs on the sidelines of LEAP24, including an MoU with Huawei to explore collaboration in innovative solutions to reduce carbon emissions in Saudi ICT sector and contribute in digital sustainability. Also, CST signed an MoU with the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) to establish a comprehensive global framework for digital sustainability and encourage its adoption by state members. Moreover, CST signed an MoU with Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC) to promote investment and increase the benefits of infrastructure. In an effort to develop innovation programs in Space, and design training and awareness programs, CST signed an MoU with Singapore Space &Technology Ltd (SSTL) which will reflect in human capital development in Space and related science. Seeking to invest in telecom services and improve customer experience, CST sponsored a memorandum of understanding between STC and Flynas to provide internet services to passengers on planes.
CST presented wholesale infrastructure services license to NEOM’s digital technology company “TONOMUS”, as one of its enabling factors in providing pioneering technologies and an advanced digital infrastructure in NEOM . In addition to its contribution in attracting global tech investments to Saudi Arabia, which resulted in the announcement of a $100 million investment from the Chinese company "HONOR“. This investment will contribute to boosting the communications market and divers modern technologies enhanced by artificial intelligence.
On the sidelines of LEAP24, CST hosted SAMENA Council’s “RISE Roundtable”, which aims at discussing ICT opportunities for 2024, supporting sustainable innovation and financial flexibility, overcoming growing risks in cyberspace and bridging the digital divide, as well as, discussing industry-AI integration.
CST received two certificates from the Digital Government Authority, one of which is for ranking first among the government agencies in the Emerging Technologies Adoption Readiness Index 2023 leading at the "Advanced" level, and the other is the National EA Certificate at the third maturity level.
CST’s remarkable participation in LEAP included many contributions from its deputies governor and officials in a number of enriching panel discussions, workshops, and presentations to highlight innovative investment opportunities, and enabling ICT sector in the Kingdom.