In a recent release by Orient Planet Research in collaboration with ICT Expert Abdul Kader Al Kamli, the GCC countries have showcased exceptional performance in digitalisation, ranking high on the GCC E-Performance Index 2023. The index amalgamates data from key global indicators, including the Global Talent Competitiveness Index, Network Readiness Index, Government AI Readiness Index, Global Innovation Index, and UN E-Government Development Index.
The Information and Communications Technology sector in the GCC is confident for significant expansion, driven by factors such as digital transformation, smart city initiatives, cybersecurity measures, innovation, cloud computing, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Governments' commitment to diversify economies, coupled with the increasing tech-savviness of the population, creates a conducive environment for continued growth.
Key trends shaping the future of the GCC's ICT sector include a focus on digitalisation and smart cities. Governments are heavily investing in smart infrastructure, utilising advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and big data analytics to enhance urban living and improve overall efficiency. Cybersecurity has also gained prominence to safeguard sensitive data and critical infrastructure as the region becomes more digitally interconnected.
A third trend is the rapid rise of 5G technology, with governments and the telecom sector investing heavily in its development and deployment. This technology is expected to catalyse innovations such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things on an unprecedented scale, impacting various sectors, including healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
Dr. Nidal Abou Zaki, Managing Director of Orient Planet Group, stated, "The GCC countries showed exceptional performance in digitalisation efforts with countries ranking extremely well in the GCC E-Performance Index 2023." The UAE secured the top spot, followed by Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Abdul Kader Al Kamli, ICT expert and Independent Researcher, highlighted the region's commitment to fostering digitalisation, with the UAE leading in all five indices. The GCC E-Performance Index for 2023 recorded the UAE securing the top spot, with Saudi Arabia and Qatar following closely.
Saudi Arabia excels in the research and development pillar, showcasing the region's commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement. The Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2022 highlighted the UAE's excellence in talent attraction, driven by outstanding employment policies.
The Network Readiness Index 2022, which focused on the younger generation's role in shaping the digital age, showcased the UAE's strength in all pillars, particularly excelling in the people category.
The Government AI Readiness Index 2022 gauged the integration of AI in enhancing public services, with the UAE ranking high on indicators spanning government, technology, and data infrastructure sectors.
The Global Innovation Index 2023 scrutinised innovation performance, with the UAE outperforming high-income group averages in multiple categories.
Finally, the UN E-Government Development Index ranks countries based on their use of information technology to enhance access and inclusion, with Dubai securing the fifth position worldwide and first in the Arab world.
In summary, the GCC countries' exceptional performance in digitalisation and their commitment to technological advancement position the region for substantial growth and transformation in the coming years.