Saudi Arabia’s 4th Industrial Revolution Forum unites innovators and pioneers

On Monday, the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology hosted Saudi Arabia's second Fourth Industrial Revolution forum. Themed "Fostering Innovation Through Collective Impact for Sustainable Development," the event was a venture by the Saudi Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a body linked to the World Economic Forum.

The gathering welcomed an international cohort to address pressing challenges and prospects regarding innovation, global cooperation, and public-private synergies. The forum also highlighted Saudi Arabia's ascent as a worldwide technological vanguard.

Borge Brende, WEF president, accentuated the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in formulating policies that nurture responsible innovation. With the world halfway through the 2030 agenda and a mere 12% of sustainable development goals being on track, Brende spotlighted innovation's potential to propel these goals forward. He stressed Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in this journey, acknowledging the nation's innovative strides since the last forum, especially under its Vision 2030 reform blueprint.

The event's testament to collaboration was echoed in Brende's: "Only through united efforts from both business and governmental leaders can we amplify benefits and mitigate potential risks."

Munir Eldesouki, KACST president, highlighted the essence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution—melding the physical, digital, and biological realms. He emphasized the transformative power of emerging technologies, from AI to quantum computing, while underscoring the significance of navigating their disruptions responsibly.

Minister Bandar Al-Khorayef spoke about fast-tracking manufacturing evolution in Saudi during the forum. At the same time, space experts, including Saudi's first female astronaut, Rayyanah Barnawi, showcased the potential of space research in medicinal and technological advancements.

The role of women in innovation also took center stage. Dr. Einas Al-Eisa, of Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University spotlighted her institution's substantial contribution to STEM, underscoring the innovation-driven advantages of gender diversity.

Concurrently, a Memorandum of Understanding was initiated between the Saudi Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, emphasizing a collaborative vision for the transportation and logistics sector in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.