BEIRUT (Enmaeya News)—In a bold move to cement its global footprint, Scale AI—the California-based artificial intelligence startup backed by Amazon—is setting its sights on the Middle East, beginning with Saudi Arabia.

This expansion marks the company's first major venture into the region, aligning its advanced AI-driven solutions with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030—a transformative economic diversification plan that prioritizes technology and innovation at its core. As part of its ambitious regional strategy, Scale AI also plans to establish offices in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, signaling a broader commitment to digital transformation across the Gulf.

Founded in 2016, Scale AI has rapidly grown into a leader in data labeling and AI infrastructure, powering machine learning applications for global tech giants such as OpenAI, Meta, and Microsoft. With its expansion into Saudi Arabia, Scale AI seeks to tap into the Kingdom's growing digital economy, driven by substantial investments in smart city projects like NEOM and The Line, as well as its broader push towards digital transformation across key sectors.

The company’s entry into the Saudi market will involve partnerships with local governmental bodies and private enterprises to enhance AI capabilities in sectors including healthcare, smart cities, and logistics. Scale AI plans to establish regional offices in Riyadh and Jeddah, with an anticipated workforce expansion to support local AI projects. The company is also expected to collaborate with Saudi data and AI authorities to align its operations with regulatory frameworks and national strategies. Recently, Scale AI expanded its regional footprint through deals with Qatar and Abu Dhabi's G42, targeting public sector AI projects.

Industry analysts suggest that Scale AI’s presence could accelerate the Kingdom’s digital transformation efforts, particularly in advancing data infrastructure and smart technology solutions. This move also signals growing confidence among Silicon Valley tech firms in the Middle East's tech-forward initiatives and investment climate.

As Scale AI sets its sights on the Middle East, its expansion into Saudi Arabia underscores both a commitment to global AI infrastructure development and recognition of the Kingdom's rapid technological advancements. With strategic partnerships and a focus on innovation, Scale AI is poised to become a key player in the region’s digital evolution.