Digital Sustainability as an Emerging Paradigm: Insights from the Saudi Arabian Experience and Global Implications

The rapid acceleration of digital transformation in the 21st century presents a dual-edged sword for global sustainability efforts. While digital technologies hold immense potential to advance the UN SDGs, their unchecked proliferation risks exacerbating environmental degradation, social inequities, and governance challenges. This study, through the lens of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, examines how a nation can strategically align digital transformation with sustainability objectives, offering a model for other countries navigating similar transitions. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the paper analyzes policy frameworks, infrastructure investments, and socio-economic outcomes to evaluate the Kingdom’s five-pillar strategy: technological resilience, environmental stewardship, social inclusivity, economic diversification, and regulatory agility. Saudi Arabia’s initiatives, such as NEOM, a $500 billion futuristic city powered entirely by renewable energy, exemplify the integration of digital innovation with sustainable urban design, aiming to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation. Key findings reveal transformative initiatives, such as renewable-powered hyperscale data centers, AI-driven precision agriculture reducing water use by 50%, and inclusive platforms bridging healthcare and education gaps for marginalized communities. These efforts have positioned Saudi Arabia as a regional leader, with its digital economy contributing 14% to GDP and women’s workforce participation in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tripling since 2018. However, the Kingdom’s progress underscores systemic barriers, including regulatory fragmentation, legacy infrastructure, and cultural resistance. To address these challenges, the study advocates for a paradigm shift that prioritizes regenerative innovation, are measured not only by their efficiency but by their capacity to heal ecosystems and societies. This shift requires a holistic approach that integrates sustainability into every facet of digital strategy, from policy design to technological deployment. This study contributes to the global discourse on digital sustainability by offering actionable insights and recommendations that can inform not only Saudi Arabia’s path but also serve as a model for other nations.