Elevating private-sector investment, nurturing a broader pool talent, and bolstering R&D are crucial to maintaining momentum in AI preparedness, according to research from BCG.
By Maggie Mancini
The United Arab Emirates ranks among the top emerging global economies in AI readiness, according to research from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The report, based on BCG’s annual AI Maturity Matrix, designates the UAE as an AI “contender” alongside 31 economies worldwide, including Saudi Arabia. The matrix identifies four economic archetypes based on their AI readiness, ranging from “emergents” at the low end of the scale, followed by “practitioners,” then “contenders,” and “pioneers” at the high end. Other GCC countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain, have ranked in the “practitioner” category.
The report finds that elevating private-sector investment, nurturing a broader pool of domestic AI talent, and bolstering R&D and innovation are crucial to maintaining momentum in AI development and adoption.
Beyond the UAE, the broader GCC region is witnessing an accelerated push toward AI maturity, the report finds. Saudi Arabia, also a “contender,” has made major strides with a robust digital foundation and regulatory leadership. Qatar and Oman are building AI infrastructure and upskilling initiatives, while Bahrain and Kuwait are establishing fintech-driven ecosystems.
“The UAE stands out as a beacon of advanced leadership and execution in AI, but what makes this moment remarkable is the broader wave of transformation across the GCC,” says Dr. Lars Littig, managing director and partner at BCG. “We’re witnessing a region-wide momentum that, if harnessed collectively, has the potential to position the GCC as one of the most future-ready clusters for AI innovation globally.”
The report finds that expanding AI capabilities through dedicated upskilling programs and the acquisition of global talent will broaden the existing talent pool and infuse the regional market with international expertise and perspectives.
Additionally, governance structures must be realigned to better adhere to evolving AI ethic frameworks and international standards, ensuring responsible development. Moreover, there is room for intensifying research and development investments to foster stronger academic collaborations.
