Middle East

Industry News

Gulf States Maintain AI Infrastructure Buildout Despite Elevated Risks and Rising Costs

Construction on more than USD 100 billion in AI infrastructure projects across the UAE and Saudi Arabia is continuing without broad stoppages, EnterpriseAM reported. However, rising insurance premiums, supply chain frictions, and regional security threats are altering project economics. Western hyperscalers and regional firms face potential headwinds as Iranian officials threaten retaliatory measures against regional data assets.

Industry News

12th World Green Economy Summit Highlights UAE Transition and Regional Green Finance Expansion

The 12th World Green Economy Summit concluded at the Dubai World Trade Centre, gathering policymakers, lenders, and industry leaders to discuss industrial decarbonisation and sustainable finance. According to Fitch Ratings, outstanding green sukuk and bonds across the GCC reached $73 billion, representing about 40 percent of emerging market US-dollar ESG debt issued in the first nine months of 2026, excluding China. Speakers emphasised that predictable policies, capital availability, and low-carbon industrial exports provide the UAE with a distinct competitive edge.

Policy & Legal Updates

Legaline Platform Launches AI-Powered Virtual Courtroom Simulator in Dubai

UAE-based legal technology company Legaline Platform has unveiled Meta Legal Space, an artificial intelligence-powered courtroom simulator, at the Dubai AI Festival. The platform allows law students and trainee lawyers to conduct simulated trials, arbitrations, and mediations under UAE onshore, DIFC, and ADGM frameworks. Real-time AI characters act as judges, witnesses, and opposing counsel to provide practical trial experience.

Industry News

World Investment Forum Highlights Asia-Middle East Supply Chains and Outbound Investment

Government ministers and global trade leaders convened in Doha for a high-level summit at the 9th World Investment Forum. China's Vice Minister of Commerce Li Chenggang highlighted that China has ranked among the top three outbound investors globally for nine consecutive years. Participants explored methods to secure cross-regional logistics corridors through investments in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and digital logistics.