Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming from a technological challenge into a foundational element of a new global economic order. This shift is exemplified by the upcoming “AI Everything MEA” forum, organized by GITEX Global and supported by Egyptian authorities, set to take place in 2026. The event signifies more than just a gathering; it represents a strategic partnership between Africa and the Middle East, reflecting the growing interdependence in an evolving economic landscape centered around AI.
Over the past decade, Gulf powers have been massively accelerating their bets on AI. The United Arab Emirates pioneered national AI strategies, which were soon followed by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan. Countries such as Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have also mobilized substantial resources through sovereign wealth funds, hyperscale data centers, and a strong push to lead in generative AI, supercomputing, and industrial automation. The region has seen unparalleled levels of cloud adoption, establishment of dedicated research institutes, and the presence of global tech giants—American, Asian, and European.
A Window of Opportunity for Africa
This surge in AI investment presents significant opportunities for Africa, where demand for smart technologies is accelerating in sectors like digital financial services, precision agriculture, connected healthcare, and cybersecurity. The continent, home to one of the world’s fastest-growing populations and a digitally savvy, educated youth, also grapples with infrastructure challenges and limited access to technology financing. Such circumstances have fueled a burgeoning interest in partnerships with the Middle East, combining capital, expertise, and genuine innovation needs.
AI Everything MEA will be the force multiplier for the AI mission. The forum is expected to serve as a critical intersection for investors, states, and private digital players, with over 200 venture capital funds, managing nearly €1 trillion in assets, eyeing opportunities within African and regional startups. Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of the Dubai World Trade Centre, emphasized that “AI Everything MEA will be the force multiplier for the AI mission,” aiming to regenerate the social fabric and economic landscape while redefining the region’s global stature.
This vision underscores the logic of creating a shared value chain between two complementary geographic areas. The Middle East contributes capital, infrastructure, and strong political will, while Africa provides human potential, a drive for innovation, and rapidly expanding markets. Together, they have the potential to emerge as a viable alternative to established tech blocs.
Middle Eastern companies and institutions are now investing in African digital hubs, from Cairo to Nairobi, from Kigali to Lagos. These investments take various forms, including joint AI labs, startup funding, training programs, and the establishment of industrial installations focused on data and cloud technologies. The growth of African fintech platforms, smart city initiatives, and the increasing adoption of digital government services reflect this evolving momentum.
The anticipated launch of a regional technology academy for young graduates, announced alongside the forum, aligns with this strategic endeavor. With over 750,000 graduates produced annually across multiple African countries, the demand for specialized training in technology is soaring. The Middle East, with its advanced technology universities and innovation centers backed by sovereign wealth funds, is eager to host or support this emerging talent. Such cross-regional skill flows could be pivotal in enhancing African competitiveness in the global market.
From a geopolitical perspective, the Africa–Middle East axis addresses the fragmentation of global technology value chains. As major powers vie for dominance over semiconductors, AI models, and digital sovereignty, emerging economies are increasingly focused on bolstering their autonomy. Collaborative initiatives around sovereign cloud infrastructures, AI ethics, and cybersecurity illustrate a collective ambition to create a more equitable innovation ecosystem.
The Africa–Middle East Digital Corridor: A New 21st-Century Tech Power Center?
With the “AI Everything MEA” forum, this burgeoning cooperation reaches a significant milestone: the establishment of a genuine Africa–Middle East digital corridor that could influence international debates regarding AI, its applications, and regulatory frameworks. In a world where artificial intelligence is reshaping economies, governance, and international relations, this partnership may well emerge as one of the leading technological power centers of the 21st century.
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