IBM to Invest $200 Million in New Software Lab in Riyadh.

by: TN Media News Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
In a major step toward advancing the Kingdom’s technology sector, IBM has announced a $200 million investment to establish a new Software Lab in Riyadh. This initiative highlights IBM’s ongoing commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and aims to accelerate innovation, digital transformation, and skills development.

IBM Software Lab to Drive AI and Sustainability Solutions

The IBM Software Lab in Riyadh will focus on developing advanced solutions in Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Sustainability Software. The lab is set to play a key role in product development, software design, and management, while fostering knowledge exchange and technological innovation.

This move will help create high-quality job opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s young IT professionals. Additionally, it will position the Kingdom as a regional hub for cutting-edge tech solutions that can be exported globally.

Announcement at LEAP 2024

The news was officially revealed on the main stage of LEAP 2024, during a discussion between:

  • H.E. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology

  • Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO of IBM

A Strategic Boost to Saudi Arabia’s ICT Sector

His Excellency Abdullah Alswaha expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating:

“IBM’s decision to open an international Software Lab in Saudi Arabia confirms the Kingdom’s success in the ICT sector. This lab will fast-track AI-driven innovation, help entrepreneurs develop new business models, and strengthen the capabilities of both public and private sectors.”

IBM’s Continued Expansion in the Kingdom

IBM has been present in Saudi Arabia since 1947, playing a significant role in the Kingdom’s digital growth. The new Software Lab in Riyadh follows IBM’s recent announcement of establishing its regional headquarters in the capital.

Arvind Krishna, IBM’s CEO, emphasized the company’s long-standing partnership with Saudi Arabia:

“This lab represents IBM’s deep commitment to the region. By collaborating with Saudi innovators, we will deliver differentiated value to our global clients in AI and hybrid cloud technologies.”

Part of IBM’s Global Innovation Network

The planned IBM Software Lab in Riyadh will become part of IBM’s global network of Software Labs, which already includes locations in:

  • The United States, Canada, India, Europe

This new facility will serve as a strategic innovation hub, further positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in digital transformation and technological advancement.