Across the globe, developments in artificial intelligence (AI) abound. This technology is redefining how entities across industries operate and how governments worldwide approach digital transformation. In the Middle East, AI has been at the forefront of national agendas, with far-reaching initiatives involving cybersecurity.
The region’s AI adoption is yielding tangible economic benefits. According to Statista, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is leading the region with an average annual AI contribution growth of 33.5 percent from 2018 to 2030. Saudi Arabia follows with a 31.3 percent growth rate, while the other GCC nations, namely Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar are collectively seeing a 28.8 percent increase.
In Saudi Arabia, the recently concluded LEAP 2025 saw the country announce nearly $15 billion in planned investments in AI. This announcement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a multi-year strategy that aims to reduce the country’s reliance on oil revenues and diversify its economy.
Read: Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi on women empowerment through education
Similarly, the UAE is investing heavily in AI and cybersecurity, with robust frameworks guiding its approach to AI-driven innovation. Its recently unveiled National Cybersecurity Strategy is built upon five key pillars: Governance, protection, innovation, capacity building, and collaboration. All of these are essential to creating a resilient and future-proof cybersecurity ecosystem.
The UAE, with its adamant push for AI adoption and intensified efforts for cybersecurity, has notably achieved the top rank in the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index. The country excelled in key areas such as legal, technical, organizational, capacity development, and cooperation domains.
As emphasized by H.E. Dr Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, in this edition’s cover story, this success is driven by visionary leadership, comprehensive strategies, and a whole-of-nation approach involving government entities, private sector organizations, and educational institutions.
This achievement is particularly crucial in an era of rising cyber threats. A new study by IBM reveals that the average cost of a data breach in the Middle East surged by 8.4 percent annually, reaching $8.75 million in 2024. This underscores the importance of continuous investment in cybersecurity awareness and infrastructure to stay ahead of evolving threats.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day this March, Economy Middle East spotlights 30 visionary women across the region who are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping a more inclusive future.
The Middle East is undergoing a profound transformation, with women at the forefront — leading businesses, redefining industries, and challenging norms. Their growing influence is not only reshaping boardrooms but also fostering a culture of inclusivity, equality, and opportunity.
As more women rise to leadership roles, they become beacons of inspiration, proving that ambition and talent knows no gender.
Initiatives supporting women in leadership, education, and entrepreneurship are paving the way for a more equitable society, one where potential is nurtured and every individual has the chance to thrive. With these ongoing advancements, the Middle East is emerging as a global leader in women’s empowerment, setting a precedent for the world to follow.
May we continue championing inclusivity to accelerate innovation, empower future leaders, and drive progress in AI, cybersecurity, and beyond.
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