Arab Forum Calls for Development of Sovereign Arab-African AI Model

Participants at the first Arab Forum for Artificial Intelligence and Entrepreneurship have called for the development of an Arab-African artificial intelligence model designed around the region’s own expertise, languages, cultures and economic needs.

The proposal was among the key recommendations issued as the forum concluded in Tangier, Morocco. Participants said a regionally developed AI model could help strengthen Arab and African digital and technological sovereignty.

Sovereign Centre for Data, Investment and AI

The forum recommended establishing a sovereign Arab-African centre dedicated to investment, data and artificial intelligence.

Under the proposal, the centre would collect, analyse and process economic and investment data from reliable sources using Arab and African expertise. The goal would be to provide stronger data-driven support for investment decisions and policymaking.

Push for Smart Arab and African Cities

Participants also called for further development of smart cities across Arab and African countries, supported by artificial intelligence, reliable datasets and open models.

They said these technologies could make it easier for investors and decision-makers to identify opportunities, evaluate information and make more efficient investment decisions.

AI Linked to Entrepreneurship and Human Capacity

The forum was organised by the Arab Administrative Development Organization (ARADO), an organisation affiliated with the Arab League, under the theme “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Promoting Entrepreneurship and Building Human Capacities.”

The event brought together decision-makers, AI specialists, entrepreneurs, academics and other experts to discuss how emerging technologies can support economic development and strengthen human capabilities across the region.

Building Technology Around Regional Needs

A central theme of the recommendations was the importance of developing AI systems that reflect Arab and African realities rather than relying entirely on technologies created for other markets.

By incorporating regional languages, cultural contexts and economic characteristics, participants argued that an Arab-African AI ecosystem could support locally relevant innovation while improving technological self-reliance.

Regional Cooperation in the AI Era

The recommendations highlight growing interest in deeper Arab-African cooperation as governments and businesses seek to capture the economic opportunities created by artificial intelligence.