Google Cloud has officially launched its new cloud region in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, in a move aimed at delivering high-performance, low-latency Google Cloud Platform services to a diverse range of customers. The investment signals Google Cloud’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and its growing presence in the region.
The launch event was attended by key figures including Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, and Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, Managing Director, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa. The strategic move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to position itself as a regional computing hub and drive digital entrepreneurship and AI-based innovation across sectors.
A research study commissioned by Google Cloud, conducted by Access Partnership, estimates that the new cloud region could contribute a cumulative $109 billion USD to the Saudi economy between 2024 and 2030. This economic activity is expected to generate 148,600 jobs by 2030.
Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Abdullah Al Swaha, expressed confidence in Google Cloud’s investment, stating that it aligns strategically with the Kingdom’s computing hub aspirations and supports digital entrepreneurship and AI-based innovation.
Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, emphasized the transformative power of AI and the new cloud region’s role in helping organizations leverage data and foster a culture of innovation supported by modern, sustainable infrastructure.
Access Partnership’s research highlighted that the Dammam cloud region could support the growth ambitions of 1.2 million SMEs in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for SMEs to contribute 35% to the GDP by 2030.
Google Cloud Platform services are now accessible to Saudi Arabia-based customers through CNTXT, a leading digital transformation company established as a strategic joint venture between Cognite and Aramco. CNTXT will serve as Google Cloud’s exclusive reseller for local organizations and multinationals purchasing Google Cloud Platform services.
Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, Managing Director, Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Google Cloud, highlighted Google Cloud’s commitment to leading the digital evolution of the region. Bader Al Madi, Saudi Arabia Country Manager, Google Cloud, expressed the aim of supporting digital empowerment in Saudi Arabia.
The Dammam cloud region is part of Google Cloud’s global network, comprising 39 cloud regions and 118 zones, providing cloud services to over 200 countries and territories worldwide. Organizations in the region will benefit from enhanced security controls, data residency, and compliance with local regulatory standards.
The expansion is set to play a pivotal role in accelerating digital transformation across sectors and fostering innovation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
