GCC States Increasingly Invest In Artificial Intelligence For Economic Growth

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Albudaiwi, highlighted the foresight of GCC leaders in pursuing integration across diverse sectors. He emphasised that cooperation should extend beyond specific areas to include all aspects impacting human life, security, development, and the economy. This was stated during his participation in the Parliamentary Legislative Forum on "Best Legislative Practices in the Field of Artificial Intelligence" held in Abu Dhabi.

Albudaiwi noted that GCC states have significantly invested in artificial intelligence (AI), recognising its crucial role in shaping the new global economy. Investments have reached tens of billions of dollars over recent years, with plans to increase this to hundreds of billions by 2030. This strategy aims to establish a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and advanced technologies, positioning the region as a leading global hub.

He stressed the importance of legislation in creating legal frameworks that balance innovation with protecting rights and societal values. The GCC General Secretariat is committed to forming partnerships with regional and international AI centres. These include collaborations with the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) under Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and organisations like WIPO and ISO.

This cooperation has resulted in joint Gulf workshops and events, facilitating expertise exchange and capacity building. Albudaiwi mentioned an initiative approved by the Ministerial Committee for Digital Government in June 2021. It involves forming a team focused on AI and emerging technologies to support research, enhance digital government services, and create adaptable regulatory environments.

The Secretary-General underscored the need for an integrated vision involving legislative councils, governments, private sectors, civil society, and academia. He stated that responsibility extends beyond enacting laws to shaping a social contract placing humans at AI's core. He expressed hope for practical recommendations from the forum to boost Gulf legislative cooperation.

Albudaiwi also highlighted efforts to support experience exchange with international partners to ensure responsible AI use while keeping pace with future developments. The focus remains on fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to advance AI initiatives effectively.

With inputs from SPA