Digital transformation company Globant has secured a major contract with Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya mega-project as its digital transformation partner, while also confirming plans to open its first office in Riyadh by early 2025, an executive from the company exclusively told Arabian Business.
Speaking to Arabian Business on the sidelines of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh this week, Mamdouh Aldoubayan, Managing Director of Middle East and North Africa at Globant, revealed the company will develop and enhance the entire digital ecosystem for Qiddiya’s visitors and residents, using artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
“We’ve signed a contract with Qiddiya to be their digital partner, focusing on the full visitor experience across their theme parks and city development,” Aldoubayan told Arabian Business.
“We’re capitalising on emerging technologies, including AI, data, and cloud solutions to create a cutting-edge experience within the ecosystem.”
The partnership marks a significant milestone for both entities as Qiddiya, one of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious giga-projects, continues its transformation from desert terrain into an entertainment destination and residential hub near Riyadh.
“We’re making history right now,” Aldoubayan said.
“What used to be mountains and empty space has transformed into an entertainment city with residential developments. Several phases have already been completed, and we’re working hand in hand with our clients to shape and deliver a full experience that exceeds expectations.”
Strategic expansion
Globant will also establish its first office in Riyadh by the first quarter of 2025, with contracts signed and premises currently being prepared, Aldoubayan confirmed. The office opening represents a strategic step in the company’s Middle East expansion plans.
The technology firm is also accelerating its Saudi talent development initiatives, having recruited 17 fresh graduates for its specialised programme focusing on entertainment and tourism technology, with plans to expand the initiative further.
“Entertainment and tourism are contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s GDP,” Aldoubayan said.
“We’re aiming to increase our local talent pool, which currently represents 30-40 per cent of our workforce in Saudi Arabia.”
The company is exploring the possibility of establishing an academy to further develop local expertise in entertainment and tourism technology, directly supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of developing these sectors while boosting local employment.
Giga-project portfolio
Globant’s involvement in Saudi Arabia extends beyond Qiddiya, with the company currently engaged in several giga-projects, including Diriyah, though some clients remain undisclosed.
As an innovation partner, the company focuses on implementing cutting-edge technology solutions for these ambitious developments.
“We are working with most of the giga-projects in Saudi Arabia, transforming their entire journey through digital transformation,” Aldoubayan explained.
“Our clients choose to work with us because we’re innovation partners, always focusing on out-of-the-box solutions that can benefit them in the future.”
The partnership with Qiddiya involves multiple phases, with several already completed. The project scope encompasses creating digital solutions for both visitors and residents, incorporating the latest technological advances to enhance the overall user experience.
Talent development
Looking ahead, Globant’s commitment to developing Saudi talent remains a key priority. The company plans to add another 10 people to its graduate programme this year and reach 100 graduates by the end of 2025, which focuses on both technical skills and domain expertise in entertainment and tourism.
“In the coming three to four years, these talents will become experts in their careers,” Aldoubayan said.
“This kind of specialised knowledge is crucial as Saudi Arabia continues to develop its domestic tourism sector, which is already changing travel patterns among Saudis who are increasingly choosing to holiday within the kingdom.”
The company’s expansion in Saudi Arabia mirrors its successful growth in other regional markets, including the UAE, and complements its strong presence in 30 countries including Latin America, the United States, and Europe, where the majority of its global talent is currently based.
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