<p>This paper provides a comprehensive review of the potential of Cognitive Radio (CR) and TV White Space (TVWS) technologies to enhance spectrum management and connectivity in Saudi Arabia, comparing their implementation with global benchmarks. Findings indicate that dynamic spectrum sharing can improve spectrum utilization efficiency by up to 80% Saudi Arabia, closely aligning with rates in the United States 85% and United Kingdom 82%, while surpassing emerging markets like Malaysia 60%. TVWS deployment can bridge the digital divide by 45% in rural Saudi Arabia regions, comparable to Canada 50%, and significantly outperforming Sub-Saharan Africa 30%. The study highlights the potential for Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity enhancement of 60% in Saudi Arabia, driven by CR-enabled solutions, paralleling advances in Australia 65%. However, challenges persist in interference management, with Saudi Arabia achieving detection accuracy rates below 70%, compared to 85% in the United States. Limited deployment of geolocation databases (Geo-DB) and flexible licensing models further constrains progress. Moreover, the paper highlights the need for flexible licensing, robust Geo-DB, and AI-driven spectrum sensing to address these gaps. Recommendations include adopting license-exempt access for rural areas, inspired by successful models in the United States, and investing in AI-driven spectrum sensing, which has boosted spectrum management deficiency by 90% in Germany. These strategies are essential to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in CR and TVWS technologies, fostering rural connectivity and achieving Vision 2030's digital transformation goals. The study also outlines Saudi Arabia Regulatory Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) efforts and related regional feedings.</p>