Building AI Talent Pipelines in the GCC: Why the Future of AI Starts with People
As the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) accelerates toward its digital ambitions, artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword. It is becoming the foundation of regional transformation. From autonomous mobility and predictive healthcare to smart infrastructure and fintech innovation, AI is shaping the next chapter of economic development. However, one major obstacle remains: talent.
Despite billion-dirham investments and progressive government strategies, the region is experiencing a critical shortage of AI-ready professionals. The UAE aims for a 30 percent GDP boost from AI by 2031, yet over 70 percent of executives in the region identify the lack of skilled talent as the number one barrier to adoption.
Our latest whitepaper, “Building AI Talent Pipelines in the GCC: Workforce Strategies for a Digital Future,” explores how the region can close this gap and build sustainable AI ecosystems. Combining real-world case studies with policy analysis, it offers a clear roadmap for leaders seeking long-term solutions to workforce challenges.
Here is a preview of what you can expect—and why this is a must-read for anyone navigating the future of AI in the GCC.
The Talent Gap Slowing AI Progress
AI systems do not build themselves. Skilled people are needed to implement, train, and govern them. Unfortunately, those people are in short supply.
- Only 30 percent of UAE organisations currently report having enough AI talent.
- Saudi Arabia faces a 50 percent shortfall in data science capabilities.
- 65 percent of engineers across the Gulf lack experience with key tools like TensorFlow and PyTorch.
Expatriates make up 70 to 89 percent of the tech workforce in the GCC, yet many do not have access to upskilling pathways. Without new strategies, AI progress could stall before it ever scales.
What Makes AI Talent Strategy Work?
Our research draws on success stories from other industries that faced similar turning points. These include Intel’s semiconductor cluster in Oregon, Ireland’s rise as a MedTech hub, and Japan’s battery industry growth.
Across all three, five strategic pillars emerged as common success factors:
- Hyper-Personalised Learning
Platforms like Sana Labs reduce technical reskilling time by up to 40 percent. Generative AI tutors are also being used in UAE classrooms to boost problem-solving skills and learner engagement. - Public-Private Partnerships
NEOM’s AI Accelerator, built in collaboration with NVIDIA, is aiming to train 10,000 coders by 2026. But less than 20 percent of AI projects in Saudi Arabia currently involve local startups, highlighting the need for closer industry-academia ties. - Strategic Immigration
Golden visas have successfully attracted top global talent. The next phase should include specialists in AI ethics, robotics, and AI safety to future-proof these ecosystems. - Cultural and Generational Inclusion
Millennials and Gen Z now make up 45 percent of the tech sector in the region. Values alignment, especially around ESG and purpose-driven work, is vital for attracting and retaining them. Reverse mentoring and agile career pathways are beginning to close the gap. - Equity and Retention for Expatriates
A persistent wage gap affects many of the region’s expatriate workers. In 60 percent of GCC tech roles, expatriates are paid less than global peers for the same responsibilities. Addressing this is essential to long-term retention and employer branding.
From Concept to Implementation: The Blueprint
Our whitepaper lays out a concrete blueprint for regional success. Highlights include:
- Design industry-aligned AI degrees with firms like G42
- Expand golden visa criteria to cover high-demand AI roles
- Create a GCC AI Skills Council to unify certifications
- Fund applied research hubs across the region
- Implement blockchain payroll systems to improve transparency and efficiency
These strategies are not theoretical. They are grounded in proven models and adapted to the cultural and economic realities of the Gulf.
Who Is This For?
This whitepaper is an essential read for a wide range of stakeholders across government, academia, and business.
It is especially relevant for:
- Policy architects designing national workforce or digital economy frameworks
- HR and L&D professionals looking to future-proof their workforce
- C-suite leaders navigating digital transformation agendas
- Venture capitalists and investors exploring the AI startup landscape
- Education providers building next-generation AI curriculums
Whether you are shaping macro policy or managing micro learning programmes, the insights in this report will help you act with clarity and foresight.
Download the Full Whitepaper
AI transformation is not just about algorithms and automation. It is about people. Talent remains the single most important factor in whether the GCC can lead or lag in the AI age.
If the region is to move from ambition to action, from potential to performance, then building smart, inclusive, and resilient AI talent pipelines is the place to start.
Download “Building AI Talent Pipelines in the GCC: Workforce Strategies for a Digital Future” to explore the strategies, trends, and tools shaping the next decade of digital growth in the Gulf.
ecap Insights | Q2 2025
Workforce strategies for a smarter tomorrow.
