Cisco Partners with Saudi Arabia's HUMAIN to Drive AI Infrastructure Forward
Cisco Partners with Saudi Arabia's HUMAIN to Drive AI Infrastructure Forward
In a significant move towards enhancing artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, Cisco, the global networking leader, has announced an ambitious partnership with Saudi Arabia's new AI entity, HUMAIN. This collaboration aims to construct a world-class AI infrastructure that aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, seeking to transform the Kingdom into a leading digital economy.
As the Kingdom embarks on its journey to incorporate AI into its socio-economic framework, this partnership represents a strategic commitment to bolstering both research and digital skills within the region. Cisco’s extensive expertise in networking and security will be pivotal in creating a robust, scalable, and secure AI infrastructure that utilizes cloud-based solutions.
Setting New Standards for AI
This partnership is more than just a technological enhancement; it embodies a unified vision for future AI advancements. According to Chuck Robbins, Cisco’s CEO, this initiative does not merely focus on infrastructure; it is an invitation to innovators worldwide. He believes that the collaboration will foster an environment where AI can be democratised, offering insights and solutions that are not constrained by existing infrastructure limitations.
The Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology, H.E. Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, lauded this partnership as a leap towards scaling world-class AI capabilities and reinforcing the country’s position in the AI ecosystem. This initiative is set to enable Saudi Arabia to become a global leader in digital innovation, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to embracing technology for economic growth.
Strategic Investments and Initiatives
To back this partnership, Cisco will invest strategically in multiple areas:
- - Establishing an AI Institute at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), aimed at fostering innovation and generating talent for the AI landscape.
- - Offering digital skills training for 500,000 learners in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, and data science within the next five years. This will expand on Cisco Networking Academy’s existing success, which has already trained over 401,000 learners in Saudi Arabia.
- - Developing AI infrastructure to support global mega events like the Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2034 World Cup, ensuring seamless operations and impactful experiences.
Building on Previous Momentum
This latest initiative comes on the heels of Cisco's announcements at LEAP 2025, where the company unveiled plans to enhance AI and digital innovation in Saudi Arabia. Cisco has already operationalized data centers within the Kingdom and plans to establish a Meraki cloud, which will provide cloud-managed networking solutions to serve local needs. Additionally, Cisco is set to expand its manufacturing base in Saudi Arabia, commencing with wireless technology fulfillment operations.
David Meads, Cisco's Vice President for the Middle East and Africa, expresses excitement for the future, affirming Cisco’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's digital ambitions through innovative technologies and community support initiatives. This partnership not only signifies Cisco’s long-standing relationship with the region but also strengthens the foundations laid over 25 years of engagement in Saudi Arabia.
With the investment in AI infrastructure and fostering talent, Cisco and HUMAIN are poised to set the stage for a new era of technological advancement in Saudi Arabia, aligning perfectly with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives. Together, they are crafting a future where AI is not just a tool for industry but a driving force for economic and societal transformation.
Topics Consumer Technology）
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