Blackstone eIT Drives AI Innovation in Saudi Arabia: Exclusive Interview with Al Riyadh Daily
As Saudi Arabia continues its digital transformation journey in line with Vision 2030, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a key driver across various industries, from smart city development to optimizing healthcare and infrastructure efficiency. In an exclusive interview with Al Riyadh Daily, Wajih Yahyaoui, Managing Partner at Blackstone eIT, discusses the company’s role in accelerating AI adoption and its impact on the Saudi market.
1- Al Riyadh Daily: Can you tell us about Blackstone eIT’s role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, particularly in AI-driven digital transformation?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: Blackstone eIT has been a pioneer in digital transformation for over a decade. We specialize in AI, deep learning, and data solutions, working closely with government entities and private sector leaders in Saudi Arabia. Our focus spans industries such as public governance, real estate, manufacturing, and transportation.
We are actively involved in AI adoption across three core pillars: enhancing artificial intelligence applications, optimizing data strategy and governance, and accelerating digital transformation. Our solutions are tailored to the Kingdom’s strategic objectives, enabling smarter, more efficient operations.
2- Al Riyadh Daily: Can you elaborate on Blackstone eIT’s collaboration with Saudi government entities?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: We have been operating in Saudi Arabia for over five years, engaging with various government bodies on AI-driven projects, data automation, and governance initiatives. Our work with entities like the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) has been particularly impactful.
For example, in partnership with MEWA, we are deploying AI solutions to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve service quality for both citizens and investors. This initiative aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of leveraging AI for sustainable growth.
3- Al Riyadh Daily: How has Blackstone eIT contributed to AI-driven business transformation, particularly in the private sector?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: Our work with Nova Water is a prime example. By leveraging AI and digital transformation strategies, we helped Nova optimize its supply chain, streamline operations, and enhance customer engagement. The results were remarkable—Nova’s revenue increased by over 35%, operational costs were significantly reduced, and customer satisfaction ratings soared from 2.5 to 4.4 stars on major platforms.
This success showcases how AI can revolutionize industries by improving efficiency, driving revenue growth, and enhancing user experiences.
4- Al Riyadh Daily: AI is rapidly evolving. How do you see it transforming industries in Saudi Arabia?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: AI is becoming a fundamental necessity rather than a luxury. The challenge, however, lies in integrating AI seamlessly while maintaining business integrity, data security, and compliance with national regulations. Many AI models are cloud-based, but Saudi Arabia is prioritizing sovereign data solutions. This presents an opportunity for in-country AI deployments that ensure security and operational control.
At Blackstone eIT, we are working with key partners to develop AI solutions that align with these requirements, ensuring businesses can harness AI’s potential while maintaining data sovereignty.
5- Al Riyadh Daily: How is Blackstone eIT positioning itself in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding AI market?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: Our vision for Saudi Arabia revolves around three key objectives:
1. Expanding investment in the local workforce – We aim to hire 500 engineers in the Kingdom, with at least 35% of them being Saudi nationals. We have already achieved this in the UAE and are eager to replicate this success in Saudi Arabia.
2. Strengthening strategic partnerships – We are collaborating with major government entities to develop cutting-edge AI solutions that address national priorities.
3. Investing in education and talent development – AI is the future, and young professionals need access to training and hands-on experience. We are committed to establishing AI training programs and mentorship initiatives to upskill the next generation of Saudi tech leaders.
6- Al Riyadh Daily: What do you see as the biggest challenge in AI adoption, and how can Saudi businesses overcome it?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: The biggest challenge is ensuring AI is implemented securely while preserving data sovereignty. Many AI systems rely on cloud infrastructure, but nations are increasingly cautious about external data dependencies. The key is to develop AI models that can be deployed on-premises while maintaining the highest security and compliance standards.
Rather than reinventing the wheel, Saudi businesses should leverage existing AI advancements, customize them to local needs, and implement secure, scalable solutions. Open-source models, like DeepSeek, offer potential but require rigorous testing and adaptation to meet industry-specific requirements.
7- Al Riyadh Daily: What role do you see Blackstone eIT playing in Saudi Arabia’s AI-driven future?
- Wajih Yahyaoui: Saudi Arabia is setting a global benchmark for AI adoption and digital transformation. As a trusted technology partner, we are committed to supporting the Kingdom’s ambitions through innovative AI solutions, strategic partnerships, and investments in local talent.
We believe that by fostering AI innovation, we can contribute to building smart cities, modern healthcare systems, and a data-driven economy that aligns with Vision 2030’s long-term goals.
Conclusion: With Saudi Arabia emerging as a regional leader in AI and digital transformation, companies like Blackstone eIT are playing a crucial role in shaping the future. By driving AI-powered solutions, enhancing government and enterprise efficiency, and investing in local talent, Blackstone is not just witnessing Saudi Arabia’s transformation—it is actively building it.
