GoDaddy to bring .AI domain extension to Saudi Arabia

GoDaddy, the web hosting provider has announced the launch of its .AI domain extension in Saudi Arabia.

The platform said the .AI extension – which stands for artificial intelligence – opens up a world of opportunities for individuals, developers, startups, and research institutions, aligning with the kingdom’s AI strategy and growth in the field of artificial intelligence.

GoDaddy added that the .AI domain will create numerous advantages for small businesses across various sectors. It explained that “by associating with artificial intelligence, these domains become powerful branding tools, projecting innovation and technological expertise to customers and stakeholders alike.”

“Artificial intelligence is set to contribute $135bn to Saudi Arabia’s economy and will see AI’s contribution to GDP rise to 12.4 per cent in 2030, making it the biggest beneficiary of AI in the Middle East. By introducing .AI domains in the Kingdom, we aim to provide a platform for businesses and individuals to fully embrace AI’s transformative potential,” commented Selina Bieber, vice president, International Markets at GoDaddy.

Using GoDaddy’s .AI domain

GoDaddy said it provides a user-friendly tool to help entrepreneurs select the perfect domain name for their business. With GoDaddy Domain Names Creator, users can answer basic questions about their business and industry, receiving a series of domain suggestions that will make their company stand out on the web.

“Having seen the kingdom’s progress in AI firsthand, we are excited to be part of this journey by offering .AI domains, which will undoubtedly add value to the AI community in Saudi Arabia,” added Bieber.

In the event that a desired domain is already owned, GoDaddy offers the assistance of dedicated domain brokers who can strategise and negotiate with the current domain owner to secure the best possible price while ensuring confidentiality.

“We firmly believe that the .AI domain extension will play a key role in shaping the future of AI-driven businesses in Saudi Arabia. It is a powerful branding tool that signifies technological expertise and innovation,” Bieber explained.

The domain operator predicts that the future of businesses in the kingdom will be reshaped as an impressive 85 percent of business leaders foresee the transformative impact of generative AI on their customer offerings or business operations within the next three years, according to a recent study.

Saudi Arabia’s push in AI

The kingdom’s approach to the integration of AI is reflected in its global rankings as Saudi Arabia tops for government strategy in artificial intelligence.

As a part of its commitment to foster AI potential, Saudi Arabia has established the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) to drive the country’s Data and AI agenda and to outline a multi-phased approach with six dimensions such as ambition, skills, policies and regulations, investment, research and innovation, and ecosystem.

It scored a 100 per cent in all criteria related to AI, including establishing the National Strategy for Data and AI (NSDAI), having a dedicated government authority for AI, and adequate funding for AI initiatives.

With the launch of .AI domains in Saudi Arabia, GoDaddy hopes to be a trusted partner as it seeks to empower entrepreneurs, and innovators to take their ventures to new heights in the ever-evolving AI landscape.

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