The Middle East is poised to become a leader in the AI market, with a unique opportunity to develop culturally intelligent digital agents. The region’s geographical location at the intersection of East and West enables it to build AI systems that excel in cross-cultural communication. This could improve global business negotiations, diplomacy, and education. The potential for AI to contribute to the region’s GDP is significant.
By 2030, AI is expected to contribute $320bn to the region’s GDP, accounting for 11% of the total GDP. The UAE is predicted to generate an average annual growth rate of 33.5% in its GDP from AI. To support this growth, countries in the region are investing in reskilling and upskilling their workforce, with initiatives such as the UAE’s National Program for Coders.
