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GCC AI Research

May 11 – May 17, 2026

Gulf AI · This Week

Research and news from MBZUAI, KAUST, G42, TII, SDAIA and arXiv. Updated daily. Newsletter every Monday.

Top Stories

Korea-UAE AI Infrastructure and Semiconductor Investment Forum Opens - Seoul Economic Daily

The National · · Infrastructure Funding

A Korea-UAE AI Infrastructure and Semiconductor Investment Forum has opened, aiming to foster collaboration and attract investment in critical areas. The forum focuses on developing AI data centers, high-performance computing capabilities, and semiconductor manufacturing. This initiative seeks to strengthen economic ties and technological exchange between South Korea and the United Arab Emirates. Why it matters: This forum signifies a strategic move by the UAE to secure advanced AI and semiconductor capabilities through international partnerships and significant investment, supporting its long-term economic diversification and technological ambitions.

IITC and Microsoft drive Oman’s digital transformation - Travel Daily Media

Oman AI · · Partnership Infrastructure

Innovative Integrated Technologies Company (IITC) and Microsoft have announced a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating Oman's national digital transformation initiatives. This collaboration is set to leverage Microsoft's advanced cloud computing services and artificial intelligence capabilities to modernize various sectors within the Sultanate. The partnership intends to enhance public services, improve enterprise efficiency, and stimulate innovation across the Omani economy. Why it matters: This initiative represents a significant step in Oman's broader digitalization strategy, bolstering its technological infrastructure and regional competitiveness.

From CEPA to ‘Pax Silica’: Philippines, UAE drive AI alliance to power Luzon’s 4,000-acre tech hub - Gulf News

Gulf News News · · Partnership Policy

The Philippines and the UAE are forging an AI alliance aimed at powering a 4,000-acre technology hub in Luzon, Philippines. This initiative is framed within the broader context of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), envisioning a new era of technological collaboration dubbed 'Pax Silica'. The collaboration seeks to leverage AI capabilities for significant economic and technological development in the region. Why it matters: This strategic partnership underscores the UAE's expanding influence in global AI development and its commitment to fostering large-scale technological infrastructure and innovation in Southeast Asia.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid reviews plan for half of UAE government services to be AI in two years - The National

The National · · Policy Infrastructure

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has reviewed a strategic plan for the integration of artificial intelligence into government operations. The plan aims to transform half of all UAE government services to be AI-powered. This ambitious initiative is targeted for completion within the next two years. Why it matters: This reflects the UAE leadership's strong commitment to rapid AI adoption in public services, setting a benchmark for digital transformation and potentially stimulating significant investment and innovation in the country's AI sector.

UAE launches AI Cyber Factory to fight cyberattacks - Gulf News

Gulf News News · · Policy Infrastructure

The UAE has launched an 'AI Cyber Factory' aimed at bolstering the nation's cybersecurity defenses. This initiative will leverage artificial intelligence to proactively predict, detect, and respond to evolving cyber threats. The factory is designed to integrate advanced AI capabilities into the country's critical digital infrastructure. Why it matters: This launch represents a significant strategic investment by the UAE in AI-driven national security and critical infrastructure protection, positioning it as a leader in regional cyber defense innovation.

More This Week

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UAE to deploy 8 exaflop supercomputer in India to strengthen local sovereign AI infrastructure

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2

Why AI can describe an image but struggles to understand the culture inside it

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Saudi Cabinet declares 2026 the Year of Artificial Intelligence - Economy Middle East

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4

G42 and Vietnamese Consortium Commit to Build National AI Infrastructure and Develop Southeast Asia’s Intelligence Capacity

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5

UAE to deploy 8 exaflop supercomputer in India to strengthen local sovereign AI infrastructure

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