MENA AI growth could unlock $1 trillion by 2030

Artificial intelligence (AI) could unlock more than $1 trillion in economic and sustainability value across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by 2030. According to reports from the World Economic Forum, developed in collaboration with Bain & Company and the Saudi Research and Media Group, the region possesses the resources, investment capacity, and ambition to become a major center for AI-led growth.

To realize this potential, the region must address critical infrastructure needs. Success depends on faster grid connections, effective management of rising energy and water demands, and the development of resilient data center infrastructure. While mature markets may take over a decade to connect new data centers to the grid, MENA could potentially achieve this within two to five years, offering a competitive advantage.

Kelsey Goodman, head of Middle East and North Africa at the World Economic Forum, noted that global investors remain confident in the Gulf's economic future due to long-term planning and successful economic diversification beyond oil. However, she emphasized that the region's ability to lead the AI revolution will hinge on ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of its data center infrastructure.