Riyadh: Director of the National Information Center at the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) Esam Alwagait affirmed that sports have transformed from traditional competition into a strategic industry with economic, social, and cultural significance-an evolution deeply embedded in the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Dr. Alwagait, speaking during a panel session at the Sports Investment Forum (SIF), emphasized the pivotal role artificial intelligence (AI) can play in advancing the sports sector. He underscored the need to leverage AI's capabilities, particularly as the Kingdom continues to host high-profile international events and prepares for major tournaments, including the 2029 Asian Winter Games and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Alwagait noted that AI holds vast potential to maximize returns on sports investments and ensure long-term sustainability. He highlighted the value of data-driven insights in guiding decisions on infrastructure development, sponsorship strategies, and community sports programs-key components in supporting the Kingdom's economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030.