The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has officially commenced construction on the ‘Hexagon’ Data Centre in Riyadh, laying the foundation stone for what is set to become the world’s largest government data centre by megawatt capacity. The ambitious project will span an impressive 30 million square feet.
A Landmark Project for National Digital Infrastructure
Designed to meet the highest international standards, the Hexagon Data Centre will have a total capacity of 480 megawatts upon completion. The facility is classified as Tier IV and holds the highest rating from the global Uptime Institute, ensuring maximum availability, security, and operational readiness for the Kingdom’s critical government data.
At the foundation ceremony, Dr Issam bin Abdullah Alwagait, Director of the National Information Center at SDAIA, delivered a presentation outlining the project’s advanced technical specifications, operational architecture, and international accreditations. The centre is poised to meet the escalating data and digital infrastructure demands of government entities as Saudi Arabia accelerates its reliance on electronic services.
Driving Vision 2030 Ambitions
Speaking at the event, SDAIA President Dr Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi highlighted that the project reflects the unwavering support of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of SDAIA’s Board of Directors. He noted that this backing is crucial for advancing the Kingdom’s leadership ambitions in data and artificial intelligence.
Dr Alghamdi added that SDAIA will continue to launch pioneering initiatives to build an integrated digital ecosystem and develop world-class technical infrastructure. He emphasized that the Hexagon project directly aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of creating a sustainable, knowledge-based economy and establishing global leadership in advanced technologies.
About Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA)
The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is the government entity responsible for overseeing the national data and AI agenda in Saudi Arabia. Established to unlock the value of data as a national asset, SDAIA is on a mission to position the Kingdom as a global leader in the data-driven economy. It works to develop national capabilities and build a world-class digital ecosystem in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Source: MEA TechWatch
