The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has been awarded the 2026 UN Public Service Award for its National Data Bank and Estishraf digital platforms, the United Nations announced on Tuesday. The award, considered the highest international distinction for excellence and innovation in the government sector, recognizes initiatives that have made an outstanding impact in developing public services, enhancing institutional efficiency, and improving service quality worldwide.
International Competition and Recognition
The award followed a broad international competition, with this year's edition attracting more than 700 initiatives from 62 countries. SDAIA's platforms stood out for their role in advancing data-driven decision-making and public service delivery. The achievement marks a new global milestone in the Kingdom's expanding record of accomplishments in data and artificial intelligence, coinciding with the Year of Artificial Intelligence 2026.
According to the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), the award reflects the sustained support SDAIA receives from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, chairman of the board, to strengthen its role in data and AI in a way that advances the Kingdom's rise to global leadership among economies driven by advanced technologies.
National Data Bank and Estishraf Platforms
The National Data Bank stands as one of the most prominent national enablers developed by SDAIA to elevate data quality and facilitate data sharing across entities. It supports the growth of a data-driven digital economy, contributes to enhancing the efficiency and reliability of digital services, and strengthens the quality of decision-making.
Estishraf is an advanced national platform that harnesses data analytics and artificial intelligence to support decision-making and anticipate future challenges. By providing indicators, analyses, and predictive insights, it enhances the readiness of government entities and improves the efficiency of planning and policymaking.
Award Ceremony in Tbilisi, Georgia
SDAIA is set to receive the award during the official ceremony on June 25, held as part of the UN Public Service Forum in Tbilisi, Georgia. The forum brings together government leaders, public servants, and experts from around the world to discuss innovations in public service delivery.
