Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: Standard Chartered has ranked Saudi Arabia among the world’s leading markets for digital trade readiness in its latest ‘Future of Trade: Digitisation’ report. The findings reflect the Kingdom’s rapid shift toward a technology-driven economy, supported by strong digital infrastructure and rising corporate capability.

The study surveyed 1,200 multinational corporations across 17 major markets. It shows that cloud computing remains the strongest pillar of Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation, with 92% of corporates identifying it as a key driver of progress, placing the Kingdom among global leaders in cloud adoption.

Artificial intelligence is another area where Saudi companies are advancing quickly. Sixty percent of surveyed corporates consider AI essential for future efficiency and competitiveness, one of the highest levels worldwide. This aligns with national efforts to embed AI across government and industry.

Digital assets are also gaining traction. About 62% of corporates see tokenized instruments, digital settlements, and blockchain-based supply chains as tools that improve transparency and reduce friction in trade flows.

Mazen Bunyan, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Coverage at Standard Chartered Saudi Arabia, said the Kingdom is emerging as one of the world’s most dynamic digital economies, driven by ambitious corporates and an environment that supports large-scale technology adoption.

The report also highlights strong alignment with global digital frameworks, with 94% of Saudi corporates supporting the expansion of Digital Economy Agreements to harmonise standards and enable cross-border digital trade.

With growing digital talent, advanced infrastructure and rising adoption of cloud, AI and digital assets, Saudi Arabia continues to consolidate its position as a regional and global hub for technology-enabled commerce.