The Gulf Cooperation Council is rapidly becoming a global AI hub, joining the U.S. and China with significant investments and technological innovation.
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| The Gulf Cooperation Council is accelerating its position as a global AI leader, reshaping economies with groundbreaking innovations and investments. Image Courtesy: KT |
Dubai, UAE, February 15, 2025:
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is emerging as a key global player in artificial intelligence (AI), with experts forecasting the region will soon rival the United States and China as one of the world’s top AI hubs. This transformation is driven by large-scale investments, strategic partnerships, and a forward-thinking vision that leverages AI to reshape economies and establish the Gulf countries as leaders in technological innovation.
Dr. Karim El Solh, founder and Managing Director of Gulf Capital, addressed this growing influence at a panel organized by Georgetown University and the Dubai Media Council. He highlighted that major investments are already in motion, including the UAE's $100 billion commitment from its sovereign wealth fund and Saudi Arabia’s $40 billion allocation to AI. "We are witnessing the rise of three AI hubs — the U.S., China, and the Gulf," said Dr. El Solh.
Dubai is at the forefront of this AI-driven revolution, with city officials emphasizing the importance of AI and blockchain technologies in accelerating economic growth. Mohammed Ali Rashed Lootah, president and CEO of Dubai Chambers, shared that the emirate aims to double its economy by 2033, with AI playing a central role in boosting industrial sectors and increasing exports. “Dubai is positioning itself as a global destination for businesses, integrating AI to foster an advanced digital economy,” Lootah said.
The media industry is also evolving, with AI shaping content creation and audience engagement. Mohamed AlMulla, CEO of Dubai Media, stressed that technological innovation is essential for transforming human interaction and collaboration across sectors. “The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it, and execute it,” he added.
Beyond business and media, AI is being utilized for social development. Maitha Al Shamsi, CEO of the Community Empowerment Sector, explained how data-driven insights are helping shape policies and improve the well-being of residents. "AI allows us to stay ahead of social trends and create inclusive policies to foster innovation," said Al Shamsi.
The Gulf’s ongoing investments in AI and its vision for economic and social progress are positioning the region as a leading hub for AI development, with transformative potential for businesses, media, and society alike.