Covid-19 accelerated the need for governments to become more and more digitally accessible for their citizens as an increasing percentage of people have become more digitally savvy. 

Now governments in the Middle East are streamlining the delivery of services through mobile, cloud, automation, and digitalization processes.

Reflecting their efforts in advancing electronic government services, Saudi Arabia has ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) for the second consecutive year. 

The news comes via the 2023 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity (GEMS) Index issued by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia.

Using three sub-indicators,  the 2023 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity (GEMS) Index issued by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia classifies 17 countries based on the maturity of 84 priority government services through portals and applications. The Gulf state has secured distinction across all indicators.  

Ahmed Al-Suwaiyan, the governor of the Digital Government Authority, said that the ranking underscores the kingdom’s ongoing dedication to digital transformation, aligning with Vision 2030 and aiming to increase productivity, achieve efficiency, and provide optimal experience for all beneficiaries. 

Under the Service Usage and Satisfaction indicator, Saudi achieved an 84% maturity rate, a 4.76% increase from 2022; in the Public Outreach index, the kingdom’s progress outlined a surging 13.52% from 2022, reaching 100%. 

Recently, the country also achieved third in a global ranking among 198 countries in the 2022 GovtTech Maturity Index by the World Bank.  

The Innovation By Design Summit is in Doha on April 24. Attendance at the summit is by invitation only. Delegates can register here to receive their exclusive invite.