As organisations across the Middle East move beyond AI experimentation and towards real-world implementation, the need for secure, scalable and outcome-driven AI strategies has never been greater. Addressing this demand, NTT DATA is set to launch its new AI Factory Lab in Riyadh, creating a collaborative environment where businesses can explore, validate and scale artificial intelligence initiatives with confidence.

The facility, scheduled to open this month, brings together NTT DATA’s end-to-end AI capabilities alongside technologies from strategic ecosystem partners Cisco and NVIDIA. Located in Saudi Arabia’s leading business and innovation hub, the lab is designed to help public and private sector organisations bridge the gap between AI ambition and measurable business results.

Enterprise Impact

While interest in AI continues to surge across industries, many organisations are still searching for practical pathways to deployment. NTT DATA’s AI Factory Lab has been created to address this challenge by offering executive briefings, AI strategy workshops and hands-on demonstrations that help organisations identify high-value use cases and accelerate adoption.

The initiative aims to provide a secure and integrated foundation encompassing infrastructure, platforms and services, enabling businesses to test concepts, validate outcomes and develop clear implementation roadmaps.

“While interest in AI continues to grow, many organisations are looking for a practical path from experimentation to business outcomes,” said Hani Nofal, Executive Head of Infrastructure Solutions in the Middle East and Africa at NTT DATA. “The AI Factory Lab brings together the expertise, technologies and ecosystem partnerships needed to help clients identify the right use cases, deploy AI securely and scale with confidence.”

Digital Ambitions

The launch aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda, which prioritises digital transformation, innovation and economic diversification. By providing organisations with access to emerging AI technologies and expert guidance, the lab is expected to play a role in accelerating adoption across key sectors and supporting the Kingdom’s broader technology ecosystem.

Visitors to the AI Factory Lab will be able to explore interactive demonstrations showcasing AI-driven solutions across employee productivity, customer experience, software development, intelligent operations, networking and cybersecurity.

A particular focus will be placed on agentic AI, with demonstrations highlighting how autonomous AI systems can automate workflows, improve operational efficiency and support more intelligent business outcomes.

A Regional Hub for AI

The Riyadh facility forms part of NTT DATA’s broader global AI strategy, which focuses on helping organisations adopt artificial intelligence responsibly, securely and effectively through consulting services, advanced infrastructure and industry-focused solutions.

As AI continues to reshape industries and redefine competitive advantage, facilities such as the AI Factory Lab are expected to play an important role in helping organisations navigate the complexities of implementation.