The Mediating Role of Digital Innovation on the Relation between Artificial Intelligence Capabilities and E-Governance Excellence within the Saudi Ministry of Health

Abstract

This study examines the mediating role of digital innovation in the relationship between artificial intelligence capabilities and e-governance excellence within the Saudi Ministry of Health. The study responds to the growing importance of artificial intelligence in public healthcare governance, where digital transformation has become essential for improving service efficiency, transparency, responsiveness, and institutional performance. A quantitative research design was adopted using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire to collect data from employees involved in digital transformation, information technology, e-health services, healthcare administration, and e-governance practices. A total of 384 valid responses were analyzed using SPSS and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling. The findings revealed that artificial intelligence capabilities had a positive and significant effect on digital innovation and e-governance excellence. The results also showed that digital innovation had a positive and significant effect on e-governance excellence. Furthermore, the mediation analysis confirmed that digital innovation significantly mediated the relationship between artificial intelligence capabilities and e-governance excellence. These findings indicate that artificial intelligence capabilities enhance governance outcomes not only directly, but also indirectly by strengthening digital innovation practices. The study concludes that achieving e-governance excellence requires more than adopting artificial intelligence technologies; it also requires transforming these capabilities into innovative digital services, integrated processes, and data-driven governance practices. The findings provide useful insights for improving digital healthcare governance and supporting public-sector transformation within the Saudi Ministry of Health.