First published: 14-May-2026 11:27:59

Key results

• 67% of companies in the Kingdom reported that artificial intelligence has significantly improved customer experience, compared to 39% globally.
• Saudi companies are now moving beyond the accreditation phase, focusing on expanding the scope of measurable commercial value.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is leading the global scene in the adoption of artificial intelligence, with institutions and companies in the Kingdom achieving tangible results that surpass their international counterparts in terms of increased productivity and improved customer experience. Attention is now turning to the more complex challenge of ensuring that this early progress translates into sustainable long-term business value.

According to PwC Middle East’s latest study, “ AI Performance Study – Saudi Arabia Edition ,” six out of ten companies in the Kingdom reported a significant improvement in employee productivity thanks to AI, compared to less than half that number globally. Meanwhile, 67 % of companies reported that AI improved customer experience and trust levels, a figure significantly higher than the global average.

These results reflect the strength of the foundations upon which artificial intelligence (AI) is built in the Kingdom. 78 % of companies in the Kingdom reported that their AI strategy is closely aligned with their business objectives, while 62 % indicated that they employ formal frameworks for the responsible use of AI, demonstrating a more structured and disciplined approach to AI expansion.

But as the pace of AI adoption accelerates, the next phase will require a higher degree of focus, as companies move from the experimental and application phase to focusing on expanding a limited number of high-impact use cases and integrating AI into core operations in a way that delivers consistent and sustainable financial results.

In this context, PwC Middle East’s Head of Technology and Artificial Intelligence, Bhivik Sharma, stated: “Saudi Arabia has made rapid progress in the field of artificial intelligence, but the challenge is no longer related to the percentage of reliance on artificial intelligence, but rather to building the capabilities and infrastructure necessary to transform these solutions into effective operational processes, with a focus primarily on strategic and high-value use cases under a real commitment to discipline.”

While operational gains are beginning to materialize, financial returns are still emerging. Companies report an average return on investment in AI of around 30 %, compared to the global average of 37 %, reflecting the gap between initial efficiency improvements and fully realized commercial outcomes.

Bevek added, "What distinguishes Saudi Arabia is achieving alignment between national ambition and institutional implementation. This represents a strong foundation, but achieving sustainable value will depend on how companies consistently integrate artificial intelligence into their work and competitive landscape."

As the Kingdom continues its progress in its economic transformation program, artificial intelligence is emerging as a key driver of competitiveness across various sectors. Therefore, success is expected to favor organizations that focus on disciplined implementation, measurable outcomes, and the achievement of sustainable value.

The AI Performance Study - Saudi Arabia Edition, published by PwC Middle East, is based on a survey of senior executives at companies with revenues exceeding US$ 100 million, all of whom are involved in AI investment decisions and deployment.

About PwC

At PwC, we help our clients build trust and adapt to change, enabling them to turn challenges into competitive opportunities. We are a global network of more than 364,000 people in 136 countries and 137 territories, leveraging cutting-edge technology and exceptional talent. Through our audit, tax, legal, transactions, and advisory services, we help clients build momentum and achieve sustainable results. To learn more, please visit www.pwc.com.

PwC Middle East has 30 offices in 12 countries across the region, employing 11,000 people. It combines deep regional insights with global expertise to help clients solve complex problems, drive transformation, and achieve sustainable results. For more information, please visit www.pwc.com/me.

PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. For more information, please visit our website www.pwc.com/structure.

© 2026 PwC. All rights reserved.

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