Saudi Arabia has emerged as a frontrunner in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for its exceptional performance in e-government services, according to the latest United Nations (UN) index. The Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity Index for 2023, issued by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), positions Saudi Arabia at the forefront with a remarkable score of 93%.
This achievement underscores the kingdom’s commitment to digital transformation and its efforts to enhance government services through online platforms and mobile applications. With a strong focus on accessibility, efficiency, and user satisfaction, Saudi Arabia has maintained its top ranking for the second consecutive year, reflecting its sustained progress and dedication to advancing digital governance.
The index evaluates countries based on the maturity of 84 priority government services offered through digital channels. Saudi Arabia’s exemplary performance across three key indicators highlights its comprehensive approach to e-government:
Service Availability and Sophistication: The kingdom achieved a maturity rate of 98%, indicating the broad availability and advanced features of government services online. This 1% increase from the previous year demonstrates continuous improvement and innovation in service delivery.
Service Usage and Satisfaction: Saudi Arabia recorded an 84% maturity rate in this category, marking a significant improvement of 4.76% compared to 2022. The rise in user satisfaction reflects the effectiveness of digital services and the positive experiences of citizens and businesses.
Public Outreach: With a perfect score of 100%, Saudi Arabia excelled in engaging with the public through digital platforms, showcasing a notable increase of 13.52% from the previous year. This reflects the government’s proactive approach to communication and transparency.
Ahmed Mohammed Alsuwaiyan, Governor of the Digital Government Authority in Saudi Arabia, attributes this success to the kingdom’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives and the unwavering support of its leadership. He emphasizes the pivotal role of e-government services in realizing the objectives outlined in Vision 2030, including the establishment of a digital society and the adoption of innovative technologies to drive efficiency and productivity.
The benefits of e-government services extend beyond convenience and accessibility. By leveraging digital platforms, governments can streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance citizen engagement. The seamless integration of technology into public services fosters transparency, accountability, and responsiveness, ultimately strengthening trust between the government and its constituents.
Saudi Arabia’s remarkable achievements in e-government services have garnered international recognition and positioned the kingdom as a global leader in digital governance. With strategic investments in technology and continued efforts to expand digital infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is poised to further elevate its standing on the global stage and drive sustainable growth in the digital era.