Saudi Arabia Reigns in Geospatial Innovation: 1st Regionally, 9th Globally
Saudi Arabia has achieved a remarkable feat in geospatial readiness. Represented by the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA), the Kingdom moved from 32nd to 9th place in the Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure Readiness Index (GKI). This achievement places Saudi Arabia first in the Middle East and Arab World, and sixth among G20 countries. The announcement occurred on the opening day of the Geospatial World Forum 2025, held in Madrid from 22 to 25 April.
Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure Readiness Index
The Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure Readiness Index, developed by Geospatial World, is a strategic framework supported by the United Nations Statistics Division. It aims to compare the readiness of countries in adopting geospatial knowledge and how their progress on the index promotes economic growth, sustainable development, and digital transformation.
The index is built on several axes. The Kingdom ranked sixth globally in the policy axis through its pioneering experience in the governance of the national geospatial data system and the preparation of its policies, standards, and specifications in accordance with international best practices. It ranked seventh globally in the infrastructure axis for its pivotal role in unifying national efforts related to geospatial information. This includes building the national geospatial platform that represents the window of the national geospatial infrastructure available to benefit the public and private sectors, in addition to academia, the non-profit sector, and individuals. The Kingdom ranked eighth in the geospatial industry axis, highlighting its constructive role in building strategic partnerships in all sectors.
Support from Leadership
The Kingdom’s progress reflects significant support from its leadership. The Minister of Defense and GEOSA Board Chairman has provided strategic guidance. This backing enables Saudi Arabia to lead regionally and globally in the geospatial field. Furthermore, it led to Riyadh becoming the headquarters for the United Nations Global Geospatial Ecosystem Center of Excellence. Thus, the Kingdom positions itself as a beacon for innovative geospatial information management.
The GEOSA commits to organizing the survey, geospatial information, and imaging sector in Saudi Arabia. It focuses on adopting and developing the national geospatial infrastructure. Moreover, GEOSA establishes guiding standards and controls for integrated geospatial information system usage among stakeholders.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s remarkable advancements in the geospatial field demonstrate its commitment to innovation and international collaboration. The Kingdom not only leads regionally but also establishes itself as a global powerhouse in geospatial knowledge and information management.
