Saudi Arabia is taking proactive steps to address the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in an effort to bridge the global digital divide. As part of these efforts, the Kingdom recently participated in the annual meeting of the UN Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, which took place during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The objective of the meeting was to find innovative solutions and discuss barriers within the digital landscape to ensure universal connectivity and promote the global use of digital technology.
Representing Saudi Arabia at the meeting was Mohammed bin Saud Al-Tamimi, who highlighted the Kingdom’s role in technology and its efforts to advance digital innovation worldwide. One notable achievement is Saudi Arabia’s impressive 28.2 percent availability rate of its 5G network, which, although slightly trailing behind Bahrain and Kuwait, was described as outstanding in the assessment titled “Benchmarking the GCC 5G Experience.”
A key focus of the meeting was addressing the lack of internet access for the 2.6 billion individuals worldwide who remain disconnected. Saudi Arabia aims to bridge this digital divide through partnerships and investments, emphasizing the significance of investment and funding to narrow the global digital gap. During its G20 presidency in 2020, the Kingdom took proactive steps to address this issue, underlining the importance of universal connectivity and digital accessibility.
The meeting also emphasized the importance of achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Saudi Arabia’s participation aimed to propose policies and recommendations that would contribute to bridging the digital divide and ensuring digital technology is accessible to all. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential role of digital connectivity in remote work, online education, and telemedicine, making the need to address the global digital divide more urgent than ever.
The meeting brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and technology experts to tackle the challenges within the digital landscape. Through the exchange of ideas and fostering collaboration, the meeting aimed to find practical strategies and innovative solutions to overcome the barriers hindering universal connectivity. Saudi Arabia’s active involvement in the UN Broadband Commission’s annual meeting demonstrates its commitment to digital transformation and global connectivity.
The assessment titled “Benchmarking the GCC 5G Experience” shed light on Saudi Arabia’s progress in the field of 5G network availability. While there is room for improvement, the outstanding rating signifies the Kingdom’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. By continuing to invest in and develop its digital infrastructure, Saudi Arabia aims to provide its citizens with seamless connectivity and unlock the potential of digital technology.
Universal connectivity, achieved through partnerships and investments, is crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital era. Saudi Arabia’s proactive steps during its G20 presidency in 2020 reflect its commitment to this goal. By working together with other nations, the Kingdom aims to create a more connected and equitable world, where the benefits of digital technology are accessible to all.
As the world strives to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and build a more inclusive and resilient future, bridging the digital divide becomes paramount. The UN Broadband Commission’s annual meeting serves as a platform for collaboration and the exchange of innovative ideas to address the challenges and barriers within the digital landscape. Saudi Arabia’s active participation in the meeting sets a positive example for other nations to follow, demonstrating its commitment to technology and bridging the global digital divide.
The efforts of Saudi Arabia in advancing digital innovation and bridging the digital divide are commendable. By investing in digital infrastructure and promoting universal connectivity, the Kingdom is playing a crucial role in creating a more connected and equitable world. As the benefits of digital technology become increasingly essential in our daily lives, it is imperative that all individuals have equal access to these opportunities. Through collaborative efforts and the implementation of innovative solutions, nations can work together to build a future where digital technology is accessible to all, ensuring a more inclusive and prosperous world for everyone.