Accenture highlights what’s next for sovereign AI in the Middle East at LEAP 2026

As Middle Eastern economies accelerate investments in artificial intelligence, governments and businesses are increasingly turning their attention to a more complex question: how much control should they have over the technology, infrastructure and data powering their AI systems?

New research from Accenture, set to be unveiled at LEAP 2026, examines how organizations across the region are approaching sovereign AI as national ambitions begin translating into enterprise strategies. The findings suggest that while the Middle East has made significant progress in AI infrastructure, investment and national strategies, businesses are still working to close the gap between those ambitions and their ability to deploy AI at scale.

The shift comes as AI sovereignty moves higher on the agenda for governments and companies seeking greater control over critical data, computing infrastructure and AI capabilities. Accenture’s research looks at the leadership, operating models and infrastructure organizations will need as sovereignty evolves beyond a regulatory or compliance consideration.

“The Middle East has moved beyond discussing AI sovereignty and is now putting it into practice,” said Omar Boulos, CEO of Accenture Middle East and Africa.

“Our research shows that while the region has made significant progress in infrastructure, investment and national AI strategies, many organizations are now building the enterprise-scale capabilities needed to turn that ambition into measurable value,” he added.

But building sovereign AI does not necessarily mean controlling every layer of the technology stack.

“Sovereignty is not about full autonomy across the AI stack. It is about securing AI where it matters most, building the right partnerships and creating the leadership accountability needed to generate long-term economic value,” Boulos said.

The research also points to energy as a potential advantage for the region. Access to stable and cost-effective energy could support the development of sovereign AI infrastructure as demand for computing power increases and organizations scale AI workloads.

The findings will be released during LEAP 2026, where Accenture is returning as the event’s Gen AI Partner. The company will also participate in discussions around the wider adoption of AI across industries, infrastructure and digital economies.

Among the speakers is Nick Law, Creative Strategy & Experience Lead at Accenture Song, who will discuss how AI is changing creativity, design and digital experiences on the LEAP Main Stage.

Accenture will also showcase AI applications at its Hall 2 booth and host sessions covering areas including climate tech, smart cities, cloud and cybersecurity during the four-day event.