Digital sustainability as an emerging paradigm: Insights from the Saudi Arabian experience and global implications

作者：M. Imran Khan, M. Imran Khan, Tabassam Yasmeen, Noor Ul Hadi, M. Asif, M. Farooq, Tonni Agustiono Kurniawan, M. Imran Khan, M. Imran Khan, Sami G. Al‐Ghamdi · 发表于：Journal of Open Innovation Technology Market and Complexity · 年份：2026 · DOI：10.1016/j.joitmc.2026.100731 · 被引用次数：3 · 研究领域：Smart Cities and Technologies、Water-Energy-Food Nexus Studies、Digital Transformation in Industry

The rapid acceleration of digital transformation in the 21st century presents a dual-edged sword for global sustainability efforts. While digital technologies can significantly advance progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), their unchecked proliferation can also exacerbate environmental degradation, social inequities, and governance issues. This study, examines how a nation can strategically align digital transformation with sustainability objectives through the lens of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, thereby offering a model for other countries navigating similar transitions. Employing a structured narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed research, policy frameworks, official statistics, and institutional reporting, this review evaluates Saudi Arabia’s five-pillar approach: 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 ...