Saudi Arabia retains top MENA ranking for digital government services

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia has been ranked the leading country in the Middle East and North Africa for digital government services for the fourth consecutive year, according to the 2025 Global E-Government Maturity Index (GEMS).

The Kingdom achieved a regional-leading score of 99%, maintaining its top position in the annual assessment published by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA).

The index evaluates 17 countries across the region by measuring the maturity of 100 government services delivered through official digital platforms and mobile applications.

Saudi Arabia also recorded perfect scores for the availability and development of digital government services and public access to those services, while earning 99% for service usage and user satisfaction.

The Digital Government Authority (DGA) said the latest results reflect continued progress in modernizing government services and expanding access to digital platforms for citizens, residents and businesses.

DGA Governor Eng. Ahmed Alsuwaiyan said the achievement reflects continued national investment in digital transformation and the development of a government model centered on improving user experience, economic competitiveness and public sector efficiency.

He added that the Kingdom’s adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, continues to strengthen digital government services while supporting broader economic development goals.

According to the authority, digital transformation has expanded access to healthcare services by enabling many procedures to be completed online, reducing processing times and improving service delivery.

The DGA also highlighted improvements in customs procedures, where digital platforms have accelerated clearance processes and enhanced operational efficiency for businesses and trade.

Authorities said technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data are increasingly being used to deliver more proactive government services while strengthening cybersecurity and digital trust across public platforms.

Alongside the regional rankings, the 2025 GEMS assessment also announced Riyadh as the headquarters of the Global Digital Government Center, established in partnership with the United Nations to support international collaboration in digital governance.

The latest recognition adds to Saudi Arabia’s broader digital transformation efforts under Vision 2030, with the government continuing to expand smart services and invest in technologies aimed at improving public services, business competitiveness and the overall digital economy.

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