Dubai: Gulf region will become world's top AI hubs, experts say
Speaking at a panel organised by Georgetown University, in collaboration with the Dubai Media Council, Dr Karim El Solh, founder and Managing Director of Gulf Capital, highlighted the region's growing influence in AI development.
'With OpenAI forming partnerships in the region and the UAE investing in Stargate, we are witnessing the rise of three AI hubs — the US, China, and the Gulf,' said Dr El Solh.
'Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund has committed $100 billion to AI development, while Saudi Arabia has allocated $40 billion. The Gulf countries are not just investing in AI. They are actively integrating it to reshape their economies.'
Top officials at the event elaborated on how AI is being implemented across various sectors, driving economic growth, enhancing government services, and fostering innovation.
Dubai's AI-driven economic growth
Officials highlighted how the emirate has evolved from a regional trading hub to a global economic powerhouse, and now leveraging AI and blockchain technologies to accelerate its economic growth.
'Dubai has set an ambitious goal to double its economy by 2033,' said Mohammed Ali Rashed Lootah, president and CEO of Dubai Chambers. 'A key part of the strategy is increasing foreign trade in goods and services and expanding trade relations worldwide, making Dubai one of the most attractive destinations for global businesses.'
Lootah highlighted the role of AI in achieving these goals. He said that one of the main focus areas in the D33 agenda is to boost Dubai's industrial sector and increase the value of exports. 'We have a target to generate Dh100 billion annually from digital products by embracing AI and blockchain technologies, aiming to create an advanced, digitally powered economy. The rise of fintech, e-commerce, and AI-driven solutions has already entered the business landscape,' said Lootah.
'D33 is designed to ensure Dubai is at the forefront of these industries. Digital infrastructure investment will create seamless connectivity between businesses, government services, and international markets, making the city an even more attractive destination for global enterprises,' added Lootah.
Shaping the future of human engagement
The media industry is also undergoing a transformation, with AI playing a pivotal role in shaping content creation and audience engagement. Mohamed AlMulla, CEO of Dubai Media, highlighted the importance of innovation and cross-industry collaboration in driving growth.
'From the media perspective, technological evolution plays a major role in how we shape our industry as well as human engagement,' said AlMulla. 'One of the quotes of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum is — 'The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it, and execute it.' The future requires a shift in mindset,' said AlMulla.
'We highly encourage cross-industry collaboration at the Dubai Media Council for mutual growth. We deploy AI and technological tools, talent, and technology in everything we do,' added AlMulla.
Harnessing data for social development
Beyond business and media, AI is also being leveraged for social development, with authorities using data-driven insights to shape policies and improve community well-being. Maitha Al Shamsi, CEO of the Community Empowerment Sector, highlighted the importance of data-driven insights in shaping inclusive policies and fostering innovation.
'We are really looking into data and how we can harness the power of data,' said Al Shamsi. 'We have introduced the Social and Community Development Authority, and the idea is, through using AI and analysing data, we would be able to keep a pulse on new social trends, changes in society, and the well-being of the people,' said Al Shamsi.
'A lot of what we are focusing on is how to attract talent and create inclusive policies for Dubai. We want to have an environment for innovative and creative people, where they can say- This is where I want to innovate,' said Al Shamsi.
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