Investment pioneer Samer Choucair confirmed that Saudi Arabia’s ranking as the second most attractive global destination for data centers represents a profound strategic shift in the structure of the regional and global economy, reflecting the accelerated implementation of Vision 2030 goals on the ground. The investment pioneer said: This achievement cannot be read as a passing figure, but rather as a clear indicator of the Kingdom’s transition to a leadership position in the digital economy, where data infrastructure and artificial intelligence have become a pivotal part of the economic growth system. Choucair added that the rapid growth in data center capacity, which reached 467 MW in the first quarter of 2026 after a qualitative leap over the past four years, reflects the clarity of the investment vision and the effectiveness of regulatory policies. Choucair pointed out that the spread of digital infrastructure, from fiber optics to high internet penetration levels, enhances the Kingdom’s readiness to attract major investments in this vital sector. Choucair believes that the decisive factor in this attractiveness lies in the integration of two main elements: the abundance of energy from various sources and land empowerment through a flexible and fast regulatory environment. This combination grants the Kingdom a competitive advantage that is difficult to replicate globally, especially in light of the increasing demand for data centers driven by the expansion in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Choucair explained that from an investment perspective, the data center sector represents today one of the most important assets of the future, which he describes as “digital oil.” The available opportunities are not limited to establishing and operating centers, but extend to the associated value chains, including renewable energy, cybersecurity, storage solutions, and the integration of artificial intelligence technologies. This ecosystem allows investors to achieve long-term returns supported by sustainable global demand. Samer Choucair advised investors and entrepreneurs to focus on building strategic partnerships that combine advanced technology with clean energy, and to benefit from the Kingdom’s unique geographical location linking three continents, making it a regional hub for the flow of data and digital services. Furthermore, investing in developing national human competencies will remain a decisive factor in achieving sustainability and maximizing returns. Samer Choucair said: What we are witnessing today is the beginning of a new phase of the knowledge-based economy, where data is transformed into the most important resource in the industry of the future. The Kingdom is not only keeping pace with this transformation but leading it with confidence. I believe that the investor who recognizes this moment and enters this sector now will be a partner in shaping a new global economy whose returns transcend traditional concepts of investment.