As Gulf nations continue to accelerate digital transformation and invest in emerging technologies, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have signed a landmark agreement to strengthen regional cooperation in artificial intelligence. The strategic partnership focuses on the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT), a rapidly evolving field that combines AI with connected devices to power smart systems across industries.

This initiative reflects the growing focus on AI among GCC countries, as highlighted in a recent Boston Consulting Group report, which noted that all Gulf states have launched national AI strategies aimed at economic diversification and digital progress. While the UAE and Saudi Arabia lead in infrastructure and adoption, other nations such as Kuwait and Oman are building capabilities through strategic global partnerships.

The new memorandum of understanding was signed between Saudi Arabia’s Artificial Intelligence Governance Association (AIGA), operating under the technical supervision of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), and Kuwait’s Association of Artificial Intelligence of Things (AAIOT). The MoU aims to enhance collaboration on AI governance, promote scientific research, encourage knowledge exchange, and drive innovation in the AIoT sector.

“The agreement stems from a shared vision to enhance regional cooperation in artificial intelligence and its governance, and to build strategic partnerships that advance responsible and innovative AI policies and applications across the Gulf states,” said AIGA Chairwoman Dhabia bint Ahmed Al-Buainain in a post on X. Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Sabah, chairman of AAIOT, called the agreement a “promising opportunity to exchange experiences and develop joint projects that serve the interests of our communities.”

AIGA emphasized that the MoU marks its first international agreement, highlighting its ambition to play a greater role in regional AI governance. The partnership aims to establish unified standards and promote sustainable, ethical development of AI-driven technologies across the region.