Artificial Intelligence in the MENA Region: Lessons for Libya’s Tech Growth

11 November 2025

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is moving fast toward digital change, and artificial intelligence (AI) is leading this shift. Countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are using AI to build smarter cities, improve services, and support innovation. For Libya, studying how the UAE and other countries have adopted AI can help shape a clear path for its own technology growth.

The UAE’s Journey with Artificial Intelligence

The UAE is one of the most advanced countries in the region when it comes to AI. Through its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, the country aims to make AI part of everyday life from education and healthcare to transport and business.

Projects like the Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) show how serious the UAE is about preparing for the artificial intelligence future. The government also supports AI startups and trains citizens to understand and use new technologies. These steps make the UAE a great example of how a clear national plan can turn AI into real progress.

Libya’s Growing Technology Scene

Libya is still building its digital foundation, but there are signs of progress. Organizations like the Libyan Technology Foundation and Libya Telecom are working to expand internet access and improve tech infrastructure. However, Libya still faces challenges such as limited resources, slow investment, and a lack of unified digital policies.

By learning from the UAE’s model, Libya can take practical steps such as investing in science and technology education, creating national strategies for AI, and encouraging local entrepreneurs to explore tech-based solutions.

Lessons from the Region

Other MENA countries, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, are also investing heavily in AI. Their experiences offer useful lessons for Libya:

• Government planning: Create a clear national AI policy to support innovation.

• Education: Develop AI and coding programs in schools and universities.

• Infrastructure: Strengthen internet and digital systems with help from Libya Telecom.

• Private sector: Support startups that use AI in health, energy, and agriculture.

These steps can help Libya move toward a stronger and smarter economy by 2030.

The Future of Artificial Intelligence

The global AI industry is expected to be worth more than $1 trillion by 2030. For Libya, this means great opportunities if the country prepares early. The artificial intelligence future prediction suggests that nations focusing on digital skills and innovation today will lead tomorrow.

AI is not only about machines or automation it’s about improving how humans work and solve problems. Understanding artificial intelligence and the future of humans helps ensure that progress benefits everyone.

Conclusion

The story of artificial intelligence in the UAE shows that success comes from planning, education, and investment. For Libya, the next step is to follow this example by promoting tech education, building digital systems, and encouraging partnerships.

With a strong vision and cooperation across the MENA region, Libya can use AI to create a smarter, more connected, and more sustainable future.