Hello and Welcome 👋
This is our very first edition of AI for GCC, and we’re excited to have you on board.
Each Friday, you’ll get a quick, no-fluff digest of the most relevant AI developments — from local breakthroughs in the UAE, Saudi, Oman and Qatar… to the global moves shaping tomorrow’s tools, rules, and opportunities.
Think of this as your weekly radar. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, policymaker, investor, or just AI-curious, this 5-minute scan will help you stay ahead, without drowning in hype. — Let’s dive in.
🔍 Get Ready for This Week's News!
1. OpenAI Launches GPT-5 — A Major Leap in AI Capabilities
OpenAI’s most advanced model yet is now live for all users. GPT-5 shifts ChatGPT from just smart replies to smart actions — generating code, managing calendars, writing research, and even flagging health risks with higher accuracy.
2. Dubai’s Fintech Star Alaan Raises $48M to Expand AI-Powered Expense Platform
UAE-born Alaan, which automates corporate expenses, hit profitability and just secured $48M to scale further. It’s a strong signal that the Gulf’s AI fintech wave is just beginning.
3. From Saudisation to Automation: The AI Disruption is Real
Customer service and admin jobs in Saudi are being reshaped. National reskilling efforts are ramping up, but can they keep up with automation’s speed?
4. UAE Becomes First in the World to Earn AI Certification in Agriculture
From smart farms to food security, the UAE is setting global benchmarks. This new AI certification is more than symbolic — it’s strategic.
5. UAE Embeds AI in Education
Kindergarten to PhD — the Emirates is weaving AI literacy into every level of schooling. The move signals long-term vision, not just buzz.
6. Dubai’s AI Playbook for Entrepreneurs is Here
New AI sandbox policies and tools are coming online, but founders will need more than hype to build meaningful solutions. Are we ready?
Quick Take: GCC Flags Are Waving in the AI Race
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From national policies to billion-dollar startups, the Gulf is not just watching the AI revolution — it’s designing its own playbook. We’ll be covering how each country is moving forward every week.
From Us to You:
This isn’t just a newsletter. It’s your edge. So read, share, and build — because the future isn’t just automated… it’s local, too.
See you next Friday.
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Team AI for GCC
Curated for the Gulf. Connected to the world.
