Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology has launched the “Digital Future Readiness Programme” in collaboration with the Human Capacity Development Programme. This initiative aims to enhance AI skills among over 7,000 professionals, promoting innovation and preparing nationals for the global AI industry.
A Hays study reveals that Middle East tech professionals are more likely to use and train with AI than their European counterparts, with 56% using AI compared to 28% in Italy and 29% in France. The study highlights the region’s strong desire for AI training, presenting a competitive advantage for Middle Eastern companies.
Morocco is leading Africa in AI adoption, with 80% of its population aware of ChatGPT and 38% actively using it, according to a BCG survey. This positions Morocco as a global leader in embracing AI technology, driven by a tech-savvy population and strategic investments in digital infrastructure and education.
A Hays survey reveals that the Middle East leads Europe in AI adoption, with 68% of GCC tech professionals citing increased productivity from AI. Despite this, only 24% have received AI training, highlighting a regional advantage in tech talent. The UAE is at the forefront, embracing AI and other advanced technologies.
Google for Startups has launched the ‘AI Academy’ in Pakistan to foster Artificial Intelligence development across Asia-Pacific. This initiative, part of the Google Chromebook project, aims to establish Pakistan as a key AI hub through innovative partnerships and educational programs, including providing 1,000 scholarships to university students.
iBLOCKCHAIN and Nesma United Industries have formed a strategic partnership to drive ‘Intelligent Transformation’ in Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector. This alliance, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, will leverage advanced technologies like AI and blockchain to enhance operational capabilities and set new standards in industrial operations.
The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Survey and Land Registration Bureau has implemented an advanced urban planning system using SkySat data and AI, in collaboration with Planet and Aetosky. This system monitors changes in urban development and environment, enhancing smart city planning, sustainability, and efficient resource allocation across Bahrain’s 850 square kilometers.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) has launched Falcon Mamba 7B, the top-performing open-source State Space Language Model (SSLM) globally. This marks TII’s fourth consecutive top-ranked AI model, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global AI hub. The model, designed for complex tasks, will be available under a permissive open-source license.
Khalifa University’s RIC2D, through Intratomics, has partnered with LOLC Advanced Technologies Australia to develop and produce graphene-related products. The collaboration includes establishing a state-of-the-art production facility in Abu Dhabi, focusing on sustainable materials and supporting the UAE’s economic diversification through advanced materials like Graphene Oxide and Graphite derivatives.
By 2031, Dubai Police will fully integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into all services, including security, crime forecasting, traffic management, and disaster response. The AI Strategic Plan 2018-2031 aims to enhance policing through AI-assisted customer service centers, smart stations, and advanced tools, aligning with Dubai’s vision for a safe, smart city.
