Riyadh: The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) revealed in its 2023 Digital Economy Statistics Bulletin issued today that the share of the digital economy in the Kingdom's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rose to 15.6%, marking a 1.6% increase compared to 2022.
According to Saudi Press Agency, imports of information and communication technology (ICT) goods recorded a notable growth, reaching SAR54.9 billion in 2023, up from SAR45.8 billion in 2022, reflecting a 19.9% growth rate.
Meanwhile, exports and re-exports of ICT goods saw a significant 76.1% increase, rising from SAR6.7 billion to SAR11.8 billion during the same period.
The bulletin also showed that 71.6% of establishments connected to the internet used smart devices or systems linked to the internet. Among the most prominent of these technologies were smart alarm systems, smart meters, smart lighting, and smart surveillance cameras.
Regarding the sector's financial performance, operating revenues for the ICT sector in 2023 totaled approximately SAR236.4 billion, while operating expenses reached SAR115.4 billion. Employee compensation in the sector amounted to SAR27.5 billion.
As for the structure of the digital economy, the core level, consisting of activities that produce ICT goods and services, contributed 2.6% to GDP. The narrow level, which covers establishments relying on digital inputs, contributed 2.3%. The broad level, which includes establishments that significantly enhance their products and services through digital inputs, accounted for 10.7% of GDP.
This survey adheres to international standards set by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in its Handbook on Measuring Digital Trade, ensuring the international comparability of Saudi Arabia's digital economy indicators.