Tech experts have proposed creating a new artificial intelligence ‘centre of excellence’ in the Middle East to capitalise on an anticipated $300bn boom in the emerging industry.  Dr. Jassim Haji, president of the Artificial Intelligence Society Bahrain, predicted that new AI-based roles will begin appearing within the next year amid a regional surge in the use of automation.  

It comes after international audit firm PwC predicted that the AI sector will contribute $300bn to the Middle East economy by 2030, fueled by mega-projects and a new wave of innovation.

Saudi Arabia’s NEOM project – a $500 billion plan to create a hi-tech urban community in the northwestern desert – is among the biggest single AI projects in the world, while the UAE was the first country in the world to appoint a minister responsible for AI affairs.

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