Djamel Mohand, the co-founder of Saudi data governance platform Governata, has been appointed President of the newly launched La French Tech Riyadh. The move signals a deepening of ties between the French and Saudi technology ecosystems as the Kingdom pushes forward with its digital transformation and AI ambitions.
Quick Facts
- Djamel Mohand appointed President of La French Tech Riyadh.
- Initiative connects French and Saudi startup ecosystems.
- Governata is a Saudi enterprise data management platform.
Bridging Riyadh and Paris Tech Hubs
The launch of a La French Tech chapter in Riyadh is a strategic move to build a stronger bridge between the two countries’ innovation scenes. Backed by the French government, the global initiative supports startup ecosystems and promotes entrepreneurship. In his new role, Mohand will focus on fostering collaboration between the French and Saudi tech communities, supporting local entrepreneurs, and accelerating cross-border partnerships in areas like AI, data, and cloud technologies.
The new hub’s establishment reflects the Kingdom’s growing strategic importance on the global tech stage, as it continues to attract international startups, capital, and talent.
Julie Huguet, Global Director of La French Tech, commented, “Saudi Arabia is a key hub for innovation. Djamel’s leadership of La French Tech Riyadh will strengthen ties between our start-up ecosystems and create real opportunities for entrepreneurs in both regions.”
A Boost for Sovereign Data and AI
Mohand’s appointment also puts a spotlight on the critical role of data in the region’s tech development. His company, Governata, is Saudi Arabia’s first enterprise data governance platform, focused on building AI-ready, sovereign data infrastructure. The platform is designed to align with national priorities around data localization, privacy, and compliance with regulations from bodies like the National Data Management Office (NDMO) and the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA).
This new leadership position reinforces Governata’s standing within the Kingdom’s evolving AI and data sector, highlighting the increasing importance of locally-developed solutions that address specific regulatory and market needs.
Building Trust for Local Startups
Beyond direct partnerships, La French Tech Riyadh aims to enhance institutional trust in the region’s homegrown technology companies. By creating a more robust industry community and providing greater visibility, the initiative helps emerging firms like Governata gain credibility, accelerate enterprise client engagement, and build confidence around their solutions.
“Saudi Arabia is undergoing one of the most exciting technology transformations globally, and it is becoming increasingly important for international innovation networks to contribute to this momentum,” said Djamel Mohand. “Through La French Tech Riyadh, we aim to strengthen collaboration, support entrepreneurs, and help create an environment where regional technology companies can scale with greater trust, credibility, and global ambition.”
About Governata
Launched in 2025, Governata is Saudi Arabia’s first enterprise data-management platform that provides AI-driven solutions in data governance and decision-making. It is the first Saudi-made Arabic solution built to align with the requirements of the National Data Management Office (NDMO), National Data Index (NDI), and Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL). The platform helps organizations monitor compliance, protect data, and prepare for Generative AI adoption.
About La French Tech
La French Tech is a global initiative backed by the French government that supports startup ecosystems and promotes innovation-driven entrepreneurship worldwide. Its launch in Riyadh reflects Saudi Arabia’s rising strategic importance within the global technology landscape.
Source: Zawya
