(Gen)AI Developments in MENA: Key Highlights from July 2025
Saudi Arabia Launches Nationwide AI Curriculum
Saudi Arabia will implement a comprehensive AI curriculum across public schools starting from the 2025–2026 academic year. Developed by the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Communications and IT, and the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA), the curriculum integrates interactive, practical AI lessons into national education standards.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
Why it matters: Equipping students with essential AI skills from a young age prepares a digitally skilled workforce and strengthens Saudi Arabia's innovation potential.
SAMAI Initiative Reaches Training Milestone
Saudi Arabia's ambitious "One Million Saudis in AI" initiative (SAMAI), led by SDAIA, has reached a major milestone by training over 334,000 Saudi citizens. The initiative offers courses in AI literacy, specialized teacher training, and nationwide competitions such as the ATHKA AI Olympiad.
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Why it matters: Expanding the national talent pool supports business growth, innovation, and digital transformation initiatives in the region.
Saudi Arabia Invests Heavily in AI Chip Technology with Groq
Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in U.S.-based semiconductor startup Groq includes a substantial $1.5 billion order for advanced AI accelerators (LPUs). Groq is currently seeking an additional $300–500 million funding round to support scaling and meeting demand from this high-profile deal.
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Why it matters: Access to cutting-edge AI hardware boosts local capabilities in AI computing, making Saudi Arabia a global player in advanced tech infrastructure.
UAE Introduces AI-Powered Government Performance System
The UAE launched its "Proactive Government Performance System," leveraging AI to analyze over 150 million monthly data points. Announced by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the platform significantly reduces administrative workloads, saving approximately 250,000 staff-hours annually.
Source: UAE Media Office
Why it matters: Improved efficiency in public administration creates a more favorable business environment and enhances public sector responsiveness.
Abu Dhabi Launches AI Innovation Program
Abu Dhabi’s ADQ and Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) introduced the "ADQ AI Innovation Program," designed to attract leading global AI startups. The program offers extensive funding, access to critical infrastructure, and collaboration opportunities with local businesses.
Source: Startup3LMashi
Why it matters: This program positions Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in AI innovation, creating opportunities across multiple industries, including healthcare, finance, and agriculture.
G42 Unveils AI-Powered Procurement Platform "(In)Business Procurement"
Abu Dhabi’s tech giant G42 introduced "(In)Business Procurement," an AI-driven procurement platform created by its research arm, Inception. The platform significantly streamlines procurement processes, reducing sourcing and contracting times by up to 40%.
Source: WAM / Zawya
Why it matters: UAE companies benefit from increased operational efficiency, cost savings, and greater competitiveness in the digital economy.
Dubai-Based XPANCEO Becomes New AI Unicorn
Dubai startup XPANCEO raised $250 million in Series A funding, reaching a valuation of $1.35 billion. XPANCEO specializes in smart contact lenses featuring AR displays, health monitoring, and night-vision capabilities, showcasing UAE's leadership in deep-tech innovations.
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Why it matters: This major funding milestone highlights Dubai's attractiveness for global tech investors and its position as a hub for innovative deep-tech solutions.
Sources used: Saudi Press Agency, Arab News, Reuters, Economic Times, UAE Media Office, Startup3LMashi, WAM/Zawya, XPANCEO, Bloomberg.