Last updated: 3 July, 2024
GCC Countries and AI Technologies
GCC countries are increasingly investing in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are leading the charge, with significant investments in AI research and development (R&D), as well as the implementation of AI-driven solutions in government services, defense systems, and the private sector. These efforts aim to position the GCC as a hub for innovation, reduce dependency on other countries, and enhance national security.
UAE: Leading the Charge in AI and Defense Innovation
High-level Emirati court officials are said to be at odds over who controls the UAE’s advanced technology files, such as AI.
Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohammad Bin Zayed is leading defense-related initiatives with a distinct vision aimed at placing the UAE among the leading countries in AI technologies.
Emirati President Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed and Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled are working to expand the UAE’s military-industrial partnerships with major international defense companies to gain access to cutting-edge AI technologies.
Key meetings have been held between EDGE Group officials and representatives from prominent foreign defense companies.
President Sheikh Mohammad is particularly interested in expanding strategic defense relations with France.
The Emirati Ministry of Defense is in discussions with the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and French defense companies about AI-based defense projects.
Saudi Arabia: Embracing Space Defense and AI
The Saudi Ministry of Defense is embarking on new space defense initiatives with a strong focus on integrating AI.
Discussions are underway with major international players to advance these initiatives.
Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) is developing a product portfolio heavily based on AI, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to AI in defense.
Qatar: Strengthening Defense Capabilities with AI
Qatari Minister of State for Defense Affairs Khaled Al-Attiyah held two meetings in mid-2023 with senior advisors to discuss a French proposal for naval AI technologies and unmanned systems. Additional offers from European, Turkish, and U.S. shipbuilders and defense companies are also being considered.
Qatari Emir Tamim seeks to enhance strategic relations with Singapore.
Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, visited Singapore in August 2023 to discuss cooperation and joint investments in AI systems, including naval defense systems.
Officials from Qatar’s Barzan Holdings met with representatives from foreign defense companies at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in February 2024 and the Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) in March 2024.
Discussions focused on AI projects, with Qatar aiming to procure AI-driven Natural Language Processing (NLP) military systems, resulting in intense competition among international companies.
Nearly all GCC countries are interested in AI, primarily for R&D as a means of diversifying their economies and fostering novel technologies. The UAE is leading the efforts to implement AI technologies into military systems. Saudi Arabia and Qatar’s AI ambitions are equally noteworthy. This regional commitment highlights the strategic importance of AI for both economic and defense advancements, positioning the GCC region as a significant player in the global AI landscape.
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