Saudi Agencies Sign Framework Agreement for Cloud Computing

Business

January 10th, 11:15am

Riyadh - Asharq Al-Awsat

Aerial view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (File photo: AP)

The Saudi Digital Government Authority (DGA) launched a framework agreement to provide cloud computing services for Saudi government agencies through the "Etimad" platform. The adoption of the platform provides many services to various government agencies and enhances the partnership with the private sector. It also helps achieve the development goals of the Kingdom, enables the digital transformation of those services, increases transparency and efficiency, and facilitates providing services. The framework agreement aims to contribute to the digital transformation in the Kingdom, unify product specifications and standards, increase the contribution of the private sector, and create a competitive environment. The agreement aims to develop local content, rationalize consumption, raise the efficiency of digital purchases, speed up its procedures, and increase the quality and effectiveness of products. The agreement includes several cloud computing infrastructure services: random memory, virtual CPU and storage, and backup. DGA Governor Ahmed al-Suwayan said that the framework agreement supports government digital transformation programs and partnerships with the private sector. The Authority recently announced the regulatory framework of the digital government policy. At the ceremony, Suwayan stressed that the government platforms achieved digital excellence and concerted efforts through joint work and integration between various digital media. He indicated that this step supports the regulation and governance of digital services business and improves beneficiaries' experience through a system of digital government services. It also contributes to integration between government agencies and strengthens cooperation. The Governor announced that digital government policy enables and accelerates the sustainable digital transformation of the public sector in the medium and long term. The policy aims to create a comprehensive government system that focuses on the beneficiaries, including citizens, residents, and visitors, and facilitate the digital transformation of the public sector by enhancing its capabilities. The "Governance Digital Platform... Orientation and Impact" session was held during the ceremony to discuss the government's approach, perspectives, and platforms. The Governor handed over the platforms' registration certificates to the entities that responded to the Authority's circular, including Absher, Etimad, Ejar, Balady, Tawakkalna, Sakani, Sehaty, Qiwa, Madrasati, and Najiz. The Authority is the national reference and competent entity for digital governance in the Kingdom. It aims to direct national efforts to harmonize government procedures, achieve optimal investment for existing assets, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the experience of government beneficiaries and digital service providers.

from Asharq AL-awsat https://english.aawsat.com/home/article/3405986/saudi-agencies-sign-framework-agreement-cloud-computing