Dr. Raymond Khoury, a member of the Middle East Partner Group at Arthur D Little, highlighted that modern technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are pivotal in shaping the future strategies of Gulf countries. Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai, he noted that these technologies are not only priorities for the private sector but have also become central to governmental agendas.

Khoury explained that governments in the region are placing greater emphasis on technological advancements to foster sustainable development and tackle emerging challenges. He pointed out that countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are making substantial investments in advanced technologies, aiming to remain flexible in response to rapid global changes. The goal of these investments is to maximize technology’s benefits in enhancing quality of life and improving public services.

He underscored the significance of digital transformation in boosting government efficiency and making services more accessible to citizens. According to Khoury, emerging technologies provide innovative solutions that can enhance government performance across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and transportation. The increasing use of AI in public service management demonstrates the vision of these nations to advance and innovate in delivering high-quality public services.

Regarding the role of the private sector, Dr. Khoury emphasized that collaboration between governments and private entities is crucial for achieving strategic objectives. He remarked that the private sector plays an essential role in offering advanced technological solutions that enhance government capabilities.

Khoury also noted that the UAE stands out as a global leader in future foresight, with several strategic initiatives aimed at developing sustainable policies in line with global changes. These initiatives include future foresight workshops and strategic publications like the “UAE Centennial 2071,” which serves as a roadmap for the country’s long-term vision.

He highlighted the UAE’s focus on empowering youth, particularly those aged 15 to 20, who are recognized as key drivers of future change. The UAE actively works to equip young people with the tools they need to realize their ideas, enabling them to contribute to the modernization of the public sector.

Furthermore, Khoury stressed that future foresight in the Gulf represents a long-term investment rather than a short-term effort. This approach is based on ongoing strategic thinking and regular assessments of government policies. He mentioned that the UAE’s workshops are designed to ensure the continuous evolution of government strategies to align with global trends and the needs of future generations, which is vital for the success of national policies.

Khoury concluded by emphasizing the importance of cooperation between governments and the private sector in implementing future visions. He asserted that integrating AI and modern technology within government infrastructure is a critical step toward developing sustainable infrastructure and fostering long-term economic growth that meets the requirements of the digital age.