Previous Digital Government Strategies 2006-2022

The First e-Government Action Plan was launched in 2006, marking Saudi Arabia’s initial roadmap for digital transformation. It focused on delivering electronic services to citizens, aiming to provide every citizen with access to high-quality, easy-to-use government services by the end of 2010. These services were offered through integrated and secure digital platforms, accessible anytime and anywhere.

The strategy emphasized key drivers necessary to achieve this vision, such as increasing efficiency and effectiveness in government operations. It also laid out technical components of the national e-government framework, implemented through the early version of Yesser, the online services authority at the time.

Building on the first strategy’s achievements, Yesser introduced the Second Digital Strategic Plan and Action Plan (2012–2016). Developed in collaboration with government entities, universities, the private sector, and civil society representatives, the strategy also leveraged the expertise of international e-government consultants.

The second strategy focused on three core themes:

• Developing a sustainable digital government workforce
• Enhancing the citizen experience with government services
• Promoting a culture of collaboration and innovation

It also introduced the foundations for e-participation, advanced e-services, shared national applications, infrastructure development, and change management initiatives.

In 2020, Saudi Arabia adopted the Smart Government Strategy (2020–2024). This strategy defined the aspiration, vision, objectives, and initiatives for the next phase of digital transformation. It aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and the UN SDGs, incorporating innovative approaches to advance sustainable development.

The strategy aimed to transform the government into an agile, capable, and innovative institution, delivering seamless, citizen-centric, smart government experiences. It prioritized building internationally recognized Smart Government capabilities and envisioned achieving its ambitious goals by 2024.

However, the Digital Government Authority (DGA) was established following a high-level decision to restructure digital governance. As a result, the Smart Government Strategy was abridged to 2022, making way for a new Digital Government Strategy.

Following the adoption of a new digital governance framework and the establishment of the Digital Government Authority, Saudi Arabia introduced its current Digital Government Strategy. This strategy reflects an enhanced vision inspired by Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on accelerating digital transformation and delivering innovative, inclusive government services.

For more information on the current National Digital Government Strategy, please visit the following link.