Iran as key AI player in Persian Gulf region
By Seyed Sattar Hashemi
Iranian Minister of ICT
The Persian Gulf region plays a pivotal role in evolving the Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem. AI is reshaping how we approach challenges and seize opportunities.
It is not only a technological revolution but also a catalyst for economic growth and social transformation. This region possesses unique strengths that causes us to harness AI’s potential and become a global digital leader.
As regional countries increasingly invest in AI infrastructure, they lay the cornerstone for innovation-driven economies that shape the future. The Persian Gulf region offers an unparalleled opportunity to foster AI initiatives that cater to our collective aspirations. By cultivating environments that encourage collaboration and investment, we can transform our region into a powerhouse of AI excellence, attracting global tech giants while strengthening intraregional partnership for shared prosperity.
As a major stakeholder in the regional digital landscape, Iran brings invaluable assets to the table. Our domestic mobile phone operator, with over 50 million users, and our thriving digital service platforms such as Snapp! and digikala, each serving more than 30 million users, provide an abundance of multifaceted data — an essential ingredient for AI development.
Despite facing economic sanctions, Iran has successfully developed a resilient fintech ecosystem that continues to thrive and innovate.
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