Dr. Khulood Almani: Pioneering AI, Technology, and Digital Transformation in Saudi Arabia

Dr. Khulood Almani is a trailblazer in AI, technology, and digital entrepreneurship, making significant strides in shaping the future of technology in Saudi Arabia and beyond. As the Founder and CEO of HKB Tech, she leads a dynamic company specializing in cutting-edge emerging technologies across various sectors, including Generative AI, Deep Tech, Metaverse, Blockchain, and ClimateTech. Dr. Almani’s contributions to the global technology landscape have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2024 International AI Leadership Award. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Almani is not only a thought leader but also a dedicated advocate for entrepreneurship, innovation, and female empowerment in the tech industry.

Leading Innovation at HKB Tech

As Founder and CEO of HKB Tech, Dr. Khulood Almani is at the forefront of driving technological innovation in Saudi Arabia. Her company specializes in delivering emerging technology projects in areas such as Generative AI, Computer Vision, IoT, BioTech, GreenTech, and Edge Computing. Under her leadership, HKB Tech has been a pivotal player in transforming how industries across the Kingdom and the globe leverage digital transformation to improve efficiencies and drive sustainable growth.

Her expertise in AI systems, digital transformation, and deep technology has allowed her to work with global tech giants like Google, Amazon, NVIDIA, AWS, and Oracle. These partnerships have further solidified her position as a leading figure in AI and digital innovation, both within Saudi Arabia and internationally.

A Global Ambassador for Technology and AI

Dr. Khulood Almani’s influence extends far beyond the borders of Saudi Arabia. In 2023, she was appointed as a Senator of the G20-World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF), representing Saudi Arabia on the global stage. This prestigious position allows her to advocate for innovation, investment in startups, and digital entrepreneurship, connecting innovators with the resources and partnerships they need to succeed. Her work with the WBAF Global Science, Technology, and Innovation Committee further emphasizes her role in shaping the future of technology and investment.

In addition to her work with WBAF, Dr. Almani serves as Saudi Country Chair of the G100-WEF (Women Economic Forum), where she leads initiatives aimed at empowering female CEOs and promoting women’s leadership in the tech sector. Her dedication to advancing gender equality in technology has made her a role model for women across the globe.

A Champion for Digital Entrepreneurship

As a passionate supporter of digital entrepreneurs, Dr. Almani founded VTA (Virtual Tech Accelerator), a UK-based initiative that connects startups and innovators with resources, funding, and strategic partnerships. Through this platform, she provides emerging tech entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation in the digital space.

Her role as an investor in Forward Angel Investment, a group of investors from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, further underscores her commitment to supporting startups. Dr. Almani not only provides financial backing but also offers strategic guidance to digital entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complex landscape of technology and business.

Accolades and Global Recognition

Dr. Khulood Almani has been honored with numerous awards throughout her career. She was ranked first globally among the top 32 thought leaders in AI, technology, robotics, and data science by the Mobile World Congress 2023, an accolade that highlights her global influence in the field of AI. Additionally, she has been featured among the top 50 women in technology, earning the Global Technology Thought Leadership Medal and being recognized as a Global Phenomenal Brand Ambassador to work with in 2023.

In 2024, Dr. Almani received the International Leadership Award in AI and technology, solidifying her position as one of the most powerful voices in the global tech ecosystem. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing AI, supporting digital transformation, and advocating for sustainability through technology.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

Beyond her work in AI and digital entrepreneurship, Dr. Khulood Almani is a dedicated advocate for education and empowerment. She served as an Assistant Professor at Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University and a Senior Lecturer at King Saud University, where she inspired the next generation of students to pursue careers in technology and entrepreneurship. Her research on the impact of e-commerce on entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia has been widely recognized and continues to influence policy and business practices in the Kingdom.

Her academic achievements, including a PhD in Computer Science from Loughborough University, have equipped her with the knowledge and expertise to lead cutting-edge research in AI and digital transformation. Dr. Almani’s contributions to AI research and digital entrepreneurship have not only advanced the tech industry but also empowered students and professionals to drive innovation in their fields.

A Visionary for the Future of Technology

Dr. Khulood Almani’s leadership in AI, technology, and entrepreneurship aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a global leader in innovation and sustainable development. Through her work with HKB Tech, her global partnerships, and her commitment to supporting digital entrepreneurs, Dr. Almani is helping to shape a future where technology plays a central role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Her passion for sustainability, green technologies, and net-zero initiatives reflects her belief that technology can be a powerful force for good. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in digital transformation and technological innovation, Dr. Almani’s vision and leadership will be key to realizing the Kingdom’s ambitious goals.