{
  "id": 1227904,
  "title": "AI replaces search engines as usage rate doubles, academic says",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/16/ai-replaces-search-engines-as-usage-rate-doubles-academic-says",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-08-16T06:46:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ajel English",
    "slug": "ajel-english",
    "url": "https://english.ajel.sa/saudi-arabia/uvsrwbbj4"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Artificial intelligence is replacing traditional search engines, according to a King Abdulaziz University expert. Dr. Rania Abu Al-Ala, an associate professor of information systems at the university, claims that AI's ease of use and swift access to information have led to its growing popularity. Speaking to Al Ekhbariya TV, she noted that both professionals and students are adopting AI solutions for their specific requirements, resulting in a doubling of AI usage rates. The World Development Report 2026, released by the World Bank Group, underscores Saudi Arabia's leading position in the global AI industry, placing it among the top ten countries globally for private investment in artificial intelligence. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a prime destination for AI talent and a benchmark for government data integration.",
  "summary": "AI is replacing traditional search engines as its usage rate doubles, driven by speed and ease, according to a King Abdulaziz University expert.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}