Harnessing AI for Vision 2030.. An Exclusive Interview with Zack Kass

In an exclusive interview, Riyadh Daily speaks with Zack Kass – Chair of Ruder Finn,s AI Advisory Council and a leading thinker in artificial intelligence and its socioeconomic implications, to discuss how AI can play a pivotal role in achieving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. From redefining productivity to fostering entrepreneurship, Kass shares insights into the transformative potential of AI and its implications for the Kingdom.

First, thank you for joining us today. Could you give us a brief introduction to yourself, your work, and the purpose of your visit to Riyadh?

Zack Kass: Thank you for the warm welcome. My name is Zack Kass. I was previously the Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI and am now a researcher, consultant, public speaker, and author focused on AI and its socioeconomic impact. My work at the University of Virginia involves studying changes across the workforce and broader socioeconomic structures. As a consultant, I help organizations and governments adopt change more fluidly, building adaptive environments for the future. I’m in Riyadh for the Monsha’at Biban 2024 event, where I’ll be delivering the keynote tomorrow evening.

Abundance in Saudi Society

With Vision 2030’s focus on economic diversification and growth, how can AI-driven abundance contribute to this transformation? Which sectors in Saudi Arabia stand to benefit the most?

Zack Kass: AI offers the potential to create nearly limitless, unmetered human intelligence, enabling individuals to accomplish far more than before. In Saudi Arabia, where financial resources are abundant but the population is relatively small, expanding human potential becomes especially valuable. AI-driven economic abundance allows more people to elevate their skills and productivity, empowering individuals and enabling the government to function even more efficiently.

I once viewed Vision 2030 as a highly ambitious goal, but today, it feels entirely achievable. The challenge lies not in technological hurdles but in adapting social structures and bureaucracy. My research focuses on societal thresholds versus technological ones: while technological thresholds consider what machines can do, societal thresholds question what we want them to do. Moving societal thresholds will be critical for governments and institutions as we determine how AI should shape our future.

Optimism About AI’s Future in Saudi Arabia

With Vision 2030’s commitment to technological advancement, how do you see AI fostering a prosperous future for Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas like healthcare, renewable energy, and scientific research?

Zack Kass: Two key indicators I’m watching as AI becomes more advanced and accessible are deflation—where the cost of goods and services declines—and scientific discovery. I expect AI will drive breakthroughs in fields like biotechnology, materials science, and perhaps even astrophysics, which could reshape our understanding of the universe.

If AI helps to make healthcare affordable and accessible, then in a few decades, what we consider luxuries today may become tomorrow’s necessities. Vision 2030’s goals align well with this trajectory; AI can help raise living standards by making high-quality healthcare, education, and other essential services universally available. Through AI, Vision 2030 can elevate the Kingdom’s standards by expanding what’s possible.

AI Governance in Saudi Arabia

As KSA aims to become a leader in AI ethics and governance, what policies will be essential to align AI with Vision 2030’s focus on human welfare and security?

Zack Kass: For Saudi Arabia, the core question won’t be about technological capability but rather about determining what role we want technology to play. There are three essential pillars to consider: explainability, alignment, and regulation against bad actors. Explainability ensures that AI systems can justify their decisions. Alignment means AI systems should respect human values and account for unintended consequences. Lastly, punitive measures are needed to prevent misuse, especially from those with limited resources who may leverage AI irresponsibly.

With these three principles in place, AI can be effectively managed. However, societal thresholds must be carefully set, balancing progress with preserving human uniqueness and values.

Redefining Happiness and Work

Vision 2030 envisions a vibrant society. How might AI support a balance between work and personal well-being as Saudi Arabia diversifies its job market?

Zack Kass: My hope is for a future where AI allows people to focus more on what I call the “happiness function,” which emphasizes time spent with family, friends, and the community. If AI can help us work more productively in less time, then people will have greater opportunities to engage in meaningful connections and personal growth. In this ideal scenario, AI enhances productivity to give people more freedom to pursue what brings them genuine joy and fulfillment.

Transforming the Saudi Economy

With Saudi Arabia’s commitment to economic diversification, how can AI-driven productivity and cost savings accelerate growth and empower entrepreneurs across the Kingdom?

Zack Kass: I admire the ambitious vision of Saudi leadership; rapid progress is essential, even if it sometimes brings identity challenges. As people’s sense of purpose often ties to their work, frequent shifts in job roles can disrupt personal identities. Another concern is device addiction, especially among younger generations. If we can counter these trends by promoting more human connection and less screen time, AI can drive meaningful growth.

AI also enables individuals to accomplish significantly more. By reducing bureaucratic barriers to entrepreneurship, the Kingdom can unleash a wave of economic innovation and activity, fostering a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Building Stronger Saudi Communities: 

In the context of Vision 2030’s focus on social cohesion, how do you envision AI supporting Saudi communities by freeing up time for personal and social engagements? Could this help foster stronger communal bonds?

Zack Kass: “Yes, ideally, AI can absolutely support stronger community bonds by freeing up time for personal and social engagements. However, there’s a risk that increased reliance on technology could lead to more isolation if people spend that extra time on their devices instead of connecting with others. For example, it’s common now to see families at dinner with everyone focused on their phones. This is something we should be mindful of and work against to maximize the benefits of AI.

“That said, I do envision a more connected world where people have greater understanding and empathy. Lowering costs across the board—whether for goods, services, or travel—will also contribute to social cohesion. For instance, as travel costs decrease, there are more opportunities for Saudis to explore the world and for others to visit the Kingdom, facilitating cross-cultural experiences and fostering a more empathetic global community.”

Empowering Saudi Entrepreneurs

 With KSA fostering a culture of entrepreneurship under Vision 2030, how can AI empower Saudi entrepreneurs and small businesses to compete in a tech-driven economy? Are there specific sectors poised to benefit?

Zack Kass: “AI undoubtedly amplifies what entrepreneurs can achieve, allowing them to do things that might have been out of reach in the past. As an entrepreneur myself, I’ve experienced how technology makes it easier to run a business. But beyond technology, successful entrepreneurship also requires supportive systems and reduced bureaucracy. Vision 2030 can be achieved technologically, but it’s essential to have government frameworks that are supportive of business growth.

“AI also opens up possibilities for new sectors that may not be traditionally tech-driven, like professional services, food and beverage, and retail. Additionally, AI advancements, like more affordable robotics, could enable entirely new industries within Saudi Arabia. For example, we could see entrepreneurs launching car or motorcycle manufacturing ventures locally as costs come down.

“In the future, one person will be able to achieve exponentially more, but we need the right systems in place to govern and support this growth. Government policy will play a crucial role in either fostering or limiting the potential of entrepreneurship.”

We greatly appreciate the valuable insights you’ve shared today on AI’s potential and Vision 2030. Thank you for your time, and we wish you continued success with your projects in KSA.