The Middle East's Big Bet On Artificial Intelligence And Data Security

The states of the Persian Gulf are moving rapidly to establish themselves as global centers of investment and innovation in artificial intelligence (AI). The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the State of Qatar are making substantial outlays in technology and infrastructure as they seek to diversify their economies away from oil. As important, their governments are implementing digital regulations and AI strategies in a bid to attract foreign investment and develop technology companies that can go toe-to-toe with American and European competitors.

While Gulf countries face significant challenges in achieving their AI and digital development goals, they are making considerable progress, due in part to early public-private initiatives and clear and decisive policy leadership, with important implications for the development of the tech industry.