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How AI Is Shaping The Future Of The Middle East

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 3, 2025

The Middle East is undergoing a major transformation driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI). What once seemed like a futuristic concept is now a powerful force reshaping economies, industries, and daily life. As AI accelerates across the region, its potential to reshape sectors is becoming increasingly apparent.

IDC forecasts AI spending in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) to grow at an impressive compound annual growth rate of 29.7%, with the region expected to reach $6.4 billion by 2026. McKinsey’s estimates suggest AI could generate up to $150 billion in value for GCC countries, contributing more than 9% to their GDPs.

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To seize this opportunity, organizations across the region must act now, embracing AI and incorporating it into their operations to stay competitive and drive future growth.

A Region Ready For Change

Across the Middle East, governments are incorporating AI into their national strategies. The UAE, for instance, is a leader in AI adoption, with initiatives like the UAE National AI Strategy 2031 and Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) pushing AI research and innovation. These initiatives aim to make the UAE the world’s first fully AI-native government.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and various AI projects in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are also redefining urban infrastructure and service delivery. These include autonomous transportation programs and AI-driven healthcare solutions. Such projects are transforming cities, making them smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable.

Transformative Potential For Organizations

AI’s real impact lies in its practical applications. For example, AI is being integrated into government services to enhance efficiency and improve customer experiences, transforming both public and private sector operations.

In addition, AI is helping various industries optimize their operations and customer engagement. With AI tools like chatbots, predictive analytics, and data-driven decision-making, companies are improving efficiency and driving new forms of value across sectors.

Overcoming Barriers To AI Adoption

Despite its promise, AI adoption presents several challenges. Organizations in the region often struggle with outdated infrastructure, inconsistent data, and a shortage of skilled AI professionals. To overcome these obstacles, businesses must invest in robust digital infrastructure and scalable AI solutions.

There is also a significant talent gap in the Middle East when it comes to AI. This underscores the importance of investing in education and training programs to cultivate local expertise and drive long-term innovation.

Moreover, data governance is key to ensuring that AI models work effectively. Proper data management is necessary to produce reliable, accurate results from AI systems.

Looking To The Future

As AI continues to advance, it is expected to become even more integrated into the region’s daily life over the next five years. Companies must align their AI strategies with their business goals to ensure sustainability and long-term success.

The Middle East is well-positioned to become a global leader in AI, with the UAE leading the charge. However, this requires collaboration among governments, businesses, and tech providers to foster inclusive growth that benefits all sectors.

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Cyprus Aquaculture Production Highlights Resilience Amid EU Downturn

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 24, 2026

New data from Eurostat reveals a notable contraction in European Union aquaculture production, with overall volumes and values declining even as Cyprus continues to maintain its engagement in the sector.

Overview Of EU Aquaculture Production

EU aquaculture reached 1 million tonnes of fish, molluscs, algae and crustaceans in 2024, with a total value of €4.6 billion. Compared with 2023, production declined by 3.7% in volume and 3.6% in value, reflecting weaker sector performance.

Cyprus’ Role In European Aquaculture

Among the European nations, Cyprus produced 9,053.9 tonnes of farmed aquatic organisms, a modest yet steady contribution that underscores its role as an active participant in the region’s diversified aquaculture network.

Leading Contributors To EU Aquaculture

Production remains concentrated among a small group of countries. Spain led with 246,137 tonnes, representing 24.3% of total EU output. France followed with 181,434 tonnes, or 17.9%, and Greece with 127,493 tonnes, or 12.6%. Italy produced 98,051 tonnes, or 9.7%, while Poland accounted for 43,554 tonnes, or 4.3%. Together, these five countries generated more than two-thirds of total EU aquaculture output.

Species Breakdown And Economic Impact

Mussels emerged as the most produced species by live weight, accounting for 32.8% of the total EU output. In contrast, when assessed by economic value, trout led with 17.9%, followed by seabass (14.5%) and gilthead seabream (13.5%). These figures highlight the varying dynamics of species-specific production and their corresponding market impacts.

Sectorial Outlook

The 2024 data indicate a contraction in EU aquaculture, with declines in both output and value. Cyprus and other smaller producers continue to contribute to the overall supply as the sector adjusts to changing market conditions.