IBM previously estimated AI could contribute more than $300bn to Middle East GDP by 2031, with the UAE calculating AI could add $182bn to its economy by 2035. This includes the 'UAE Pass' digital services app, where biometric face recognition enables users to access more services provided by government agencies. According to GSMA Intelligence, the Middle East had 20 5G networks available across nine countries by the end of 2021. SEE: Technology in the Middle East: 21 key stats on the good, the bad and the uglyHowever, more 5G spectrum is needed. IDC projects digital transformation investments in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) will double between 2020 and 2025.

Source: The North Africa Journal December 30, 2021 02:51 UTC