Saudi Arabia presents AI-Driven tools for livestock, water, and food systems at Global Tech Forum

SAUDI ARABIA – Saudi Arabia shared new digital solutions for managing livestock health, water resources, and food security with the global community at the WSIS+20 High-Level Event held in Geneva from July 7 to 11, 2025.

The event brought together leaders from the United Nations, national governments, and global tech companies to discuss digital development goals.

At the session titled “Fostering Sustainable Digital Innovation: Saudi Arabia’s Approach to Digital Innovative Future,” Dr. Abdulhamid Aleliwi, General Supervisor at the Deputy Ministry for IT and Digital Transformation, presented seven projects from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA).

These projects use artificial intelligence to support smarter decisions in veterinary care, water use, and public health.

One of the standout platforms was the Livestock Health AI system, which won the Certificate of Excellence at this year’s WSIS Awards.

Dr. Aleliwi explained how the platform works by saying, “We developed a digital tool that monitors livestock health and helps deliver faster, more accurate veterinary care.”

The AI model collects and analyzes field data to help farmers and veterinary officers act quickly and protect animal health.

Saudi Arabia also showcased a Smart Platform for Monitoring Water Resources. It tracks groundwater across different regions, providing real-time data that supports conservation. “This tool gives us better visibility on water use and supports long-term planning,” said Dr. Aleliwi.

Food safety through smart oversight

Another system shown was the Smart Monitoring of Slaughterhouses and Public Benefit Markets. The tool provides round-the-clock updates on hygiene and operations, helping regulators ensure food safety.

“By using real-time data, we can respond faster and protect both producers and consumers,” added Dr. Aleliwi.

A major part of the presentation was the ministry’s work with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). Together, they launched the AI Center for Environment, Water, and Agriculture.

The center focuses on research and tools that improve services and reduce waste. Dr. Aleliwi emphasized, “This collaboration helps us build tools that serve real needs on the ground.”

Part of a larger vision

The WSIS+20 event marks two decades since the World Summit on the Information Society first began. The Geneva gathering was led by the International Telecommunication Union, in partnership with UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD. It focused on using digital tools for inclusive and secure development.

Saudi Arabia’s digital work in these areas fits into its Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on oil by growing other sectors like agriculture and technology.

In a related development, Saudi Arabia was elected to the UNESCO Executive Board for the 2025–2029 term. The move strengthens the Kingdom’s role in global policy-making for education, science, and culture.

The Ministry of Culture noted that this membership allows Saudi Arabia to support international cooperation and share its own experience in cultural projects, many of which link with sustainable development goals.

These announcements reinforce the Kingdom’s growing voice in global discussions on technology, food, and sustainability.

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