Qatar finance chief says artificial intelligence will lead US investments and UK Gulf trade agreement near completion

Qatar Plans Major U.S. Investment Drive Focused on Artificial Intelligence

Qatar’s Finance Minister, Ali Ahmed al-Kuwari, announced that artificial intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role in Qatar’s upcoming investments in the United States. Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative summit in Riyadh, al-Kuwari confirmed that the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) intends to prioritize technology and AI sectors in its U.S. portfolio^[1].

This strategic move underscores Qatar's ongoing efforts to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons. The QIA is set to double its annual U.S. investments over the next decade, continuing its long-term commitment to infuse as much as $500 billion into the American economy through technology-driven opportunities^[2].

Economic Diversification and Data Infrastructure

Qatar’s focus on technology and AI aligns with wider Gulf trends to promote digital transformation and reduce reliance on oil revenues. The government has recently earmarked $2.5 billion to accelerate its digital transformation program, and launched the "Al-Fanar" AI project, which supports Arabic-language AI-powered linguistic tools. The QIA has also committed to investments in areas such as data centers, software applications, and semiconductors^[5].

Ooredoo, the Qatari telecommunications giant, secured $500 million in financing in 2024 to expand its data center and AI operations. The company is partnering with Nvidia to develop AI-ready platforms across the MENA region.

Regulatory Advances and Data Protection

Recognizing the importance of a trustworthy digital environment, Qatar was the first Gulf nation to enact a comprehensive data protection law in 2016, later supplemented in 2021. This framework helps attract international investors by ensuring robust privacy policies while supporting the country’s AI ambitions^[5].

AI at the Heart of Middle East Tech Ambitions

• Gulf nations, including Qatar, are increasing investment in ChatGPT-like AI tools, data centers, and core digital infrastructure.
• The goal is to build globally competitive technology ecosystems, spurring innovation, talent development, and high-quality job creation across the region.
• National strategies like Qatar’s National Vision 2030 emphasize AI development and responsible data governance.

UK-Gulf Trade Deal Close to Finalization

In parallel with the announcement on U.S. investments, al-Kuwari stated that a trade agreement between Britain and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries is “almost done”. British Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, who joined al-Kuwari on the Riyadh panel, described the deal as an important step to deepen UK-Gulf economic ties, expected to benefit multiple sectors including technology and finance^[3].

Qatar’s robust push into OpenAI-led technology investment marks a significant shift for the country and for the wider Gulf region as it aims to become a global leader in the era of artificial intelligence.

UK-Gulf Trade Deal Close to Finalization

UK-Gulf Trade Deal Close to Finalization