The 2024 United Nations E-Government Survey shows continued positive trends in global e-government development, reflecting consistent progress over the past decade.
The survey's latest findings offer a comprehensive analysis of e-government advancements at global, regional, and national levels.
It utilizes the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI), which combines the Online Services Index (OSI), the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index (TII), and the Human Capital Index (HCI) to assess and compare digital government capabilities worldwide.
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GCC Countries’ Standing
Among the top EGDI rankings, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Bahrain achieved very high (VH) ratings in the Asia region, highlighting the GCC's progress in digital government transformation.
Overall, GCC nations have integrated digital initiatives into their economic diversification strategies, as well as investments in digital infrastructure and smart technologies. Their success is driven by strong digital cooperation, setting benchmarks for digital governance.
The 2024 UN E-Government Survey showcases their achievements, emphasizing the role of visionary leadership, strategic planning, and technology in enhancing public sector performance and citizen engagement.
- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia jumped 25 places in the UN EGDI 2024, becoming one of the leading countries worldwide. Minister of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Digital Government Authority (DGA), Abdullah bin Amer Al-Sawah, stated that this leap and the historic ranking of Saudi Arabia are the result of the support and empowerment of the Crown Prince. "This support culminated in Saudi Arabia's digital excellence and leadership. This reflects the plans and programs of Saudi Vision 2030 and enhances the role of Saudi Arabia as an effective and influential leader in the digital economy at both the regional and global levels."
Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation has been guided by the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. The country has made significant strides in e-government migration, integrating advanced technologies such as AI and blockchain into public services. With a 99% internet penetration rate and 98% of government services available online, Saudi Arabia is committed to continuously improving its digital infrastructure. Investments from companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and Huawei, alongside supporting the first global GenAI Center of Excellence, have further propelled Saudi Arabia’s digital advancement.
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a leader in digital transformation, focusing on revolutionizing governance and public services and setting new standards for digital governance These include numerous initiatives such as the U-Ask initiative, which uses generative AI (GenAI) to provide seamless access to government services; the Federal Digital Network (FedNet) which enhances efficiency through AI solutions and pre-trained machine learning (ML) models; the TDRA’s UAE Design System 2.0 (DLS 2.0) which ensures consistency and accessibility across federal government websites; and the UAE PASS, the national identity platform, which promotes unified access to all government services. Digital Dubai is also currently working to raise the level of cloud computing adoption in the governmental sector.
- Bahrain has emerged as a digital leader through its inclusive and agile approach, enhancing digital infrastructure and fostering a thriving digital ecosystem. Key initiatives like hackathons, fintech hubs, and the Regulatory Sandbox showcase its commitment to governance and sustainable development. A cloud-first strategy and affordable fiber broadband have reduced costs and improved service efficiency. Additionally, platforms like Sijilat streamline business registration, supporting entrepreneurship and economic growth.
- Qatar’s commitment to a robust digital economy is evident in its ongoing initiatives. The country’s digital transformation accelerated due to the influence of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which drove 5G expansion and necessitated the erection of smart stadiums, which utilized IoT for crowd management, security, and energy efficiency. Moreover, as part of its Government Excellence-2030 Targets, 90% of services provided to citizens must be digitalized, all services must attain a customer satisfaction score surpassing 85%, and more than 90% of government employees must possess essential digital skills. The Digital Factory initiative also seeks to bring about a profound change in the way government digital services are provided in the country.
- Oman has advanced in digital government maturity, leading GCC countries with initiatives like the National Program for Digital Economy. Oman Vision 2040 focuses on sustainable digital growth, addressing transformation, AI, cybersecurity, and more. Due to its strong ICT infrastructure and widespread internet access, Oman ranks in the top 50 globally in the Government AI Readiness Index.
- Kuwait's digital development is central to its economic diversification and public service enhancement goals. Investments in ICT infrastructure have boosted internet connectivity, placing Kuwait in the very high EGDI group. The New Kuwait 2035 plan focuses on digital transformation for growth and sustainability. The Kuwait government online portal offers extensive e-government services, while advanced technologies like cloud computing, AI, and blockchain aim to streamline processes and improve citizen engagement.
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Digital Government Trends
The development of digital governments has seen a significant upward trend world-wide, and this shift has accelerated during the post-pandemic recovery period.
According to the UN, the rapid digitalization of services, the shift towards remote work, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the emphasis on digital identity and data management, and the increased use of data and emerging technologies for policymaking are key global megatrends.
Contributing to the evolution of a thriving digital economy, public sector digitalization has driven crucial improvements in infrastructure, including the expansion of affordable broadband access and the enhancement of cybersecurity.
Global EGDI Results
For the first time, countries with very high EGDI values make up the largest share in the 2024 UN survey, representing 39% of evaluated nations.
Moreover, the TII is the top factor driving global and regional EGDI averages, with a 19.9% increase in the last two years, underscoring the global focus on telecommunications infrastructure for digital growth.
Europe notably leads in e-government development, while many low-income countries, despite improving telecom infrastructure, struggle with e-government development. Rwanda and Uganda stand out as exceptions.
Additionally, 86% of governments provide services in multiple languages, promoting inclusiveness.
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