Saudi consumers increasingly turn to AI over professional experts

In Saudi Arabia, rapid adoption of artificial‑intelligence tools such as ChatGPT is reshaping how individuals obtain advice in areas traditionally served by professionals. Users cite cost savings and speed: a restaurateur saved about 3,000 riyals by generating a brand identity with AI, while a fitness client received a personalized training and nutrition plan without paying a personal trainer. Danya Al‑Hamul said, “ChatGPT exceeded my expectations,” and Yaser Al‑Saleef noted that the AI‑generated program “produced exactly the results I wanted.”

The shift is reflected in national metrics: Saudi Arabia ranks second worldwide for AI awareness and fifth for AI sector growth, with more than one million citizens acquiring data and AI skills through the SDAIA‑run SAMAI initiative. As consumers rely first on AI, experts are adapting—some offer secondary‑opinion services to verify AI outputs, and others adjust pricing to remain competitive. The trend spans design, fitness, language learning, and even medical consultations, where doctors observe patients using AI as a preliminary source of information before seeking professional care.