Saudi Arabia and the UAE are making significant investments in artificial intelligence, viewing it as crucial for their post-oil future. These Gulf states are actively seeking advanced AI chips from leading US manufacturers to power their AI ambitions. This strategic move reflects a broader effort to diversify their economies and establish themselves as key players in the global technology landscape.
The focus on AI is driven by the potential to transform various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and smart city development. Access to powerful AI chips is essential for these countries to develop sophisticated AI models and applications. The investments signal a long-term commitment to technological innovation and a desire to reduce reliance on traditional oil revenues.
However, the US government's export policies and national security concerns could pose challenges to these ambitions. Scrutiny over technology transfer to the region may impact the availability of cutting-edge AI hardware. Despite these potential hurdles, the Gulf states are determined to pursue their AI strategies, exploring partnerships and investments to secure their position in the AI era.