Databricks Expands to Saudi Arabia, Advancing AI and Data Innovation

Databricks, a Data and AI company, has officially launched its operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). By establishing a new office in Riyadh and forming strategic partnerships, Databricks aims to empower local organizations to integrate data, analytics, and AI with its advanced Databricks Data Intelligence Platform. Saudi companies like Abdul Latif Jameel and Panda Retail are already leveraging this platform to drive innovation and achieve data-driven insights.

Andy Kofoid, President and Head of Worldwide Operations at Databricks, emphasized the importance of democratizing data and AI to support business growth in Saudi Arabia. He stated that the Databricks Data Intelligence Platform enables organizations to build generative AI solutions and derive deeper insights from enterprise data, positioning Saudi Arabia as a hub for technological advancement. Mohammed Alrobayan, Deputy Minister for Technology at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), welcomed Databricks, highlighting the company’s potential to contribute to the Kingdom’s technical excellence and innovation goals.

Databricks has appointed Mohammad Alzaubi as General Manager to lead its local operations. With a strong background from IBM, SAP, and Microsoft, Alzaubi will focus on driving the adoption of the Databricks Data Intelligence Platform across key industries, including financial services, telecommunications, energy, and retail. The company has also opened a new office in Al Faisaliah Tower, Riyadh, as part of its investment in the region.

Databricks is committed to fostering talent development in Saudi Arabia. Through its collaboration with MCIT, the Future Skills Initiative, and the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), Databricks’ ‘Data Engineer Professional’ and ‘Data Engineer Associate’ certifications are now recognized as globally accredited qualifications. This initiative offers financial reimbursement to Saudi citizens who achieve these certifications, enabling the development of national expertise in data engineering and analytics.

The company’s expansion aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a framework focused on economic diversification and technological innovation. By providing access to advanced data analytics and AI tools, Databricks is empowering Saudi organizations to modernize operations, drive efficiency, and unlock new opportunities. Sanabil Investments, a wholly owned company of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), participated in Databricks’ $500 million Series I funding round in 2023, recognizing the company’s potential to contribute to the Kingdom’s vibrant technology ecosystem.

Databricks’ advanced Data Intelligence Platform is poised to play a critical role in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation journey. Its presence in the Kingdom underscores its commitment to supporting innovation, upskilling talent, and driving AI adoption across industries, further advancing the goals of Vision 2030.