Ayman Hassan highlights global cooperation to scale AI in Egypt

Tuesday 07 April 2026 - 11:10

By: Dakir Madiha

Ayman Hassan highlights global cooperation to scale AI in Egypt

Egypt is positioning itself as a regional hub for artificial intelligence by advancing a strategy built on cross-border collaboration, according to Ayman Hassan, commercial vice president at GITEX, ahead of Ai Everything MEA 2026.

Hassan said artificial intelligence cannot scale effectively without coordinated action between governments, private sector actors, investors, and startups. He noted that fragmented efforts slow adoption and limit impact, while integrated ecosystems enable practical deployment and measurable results.

The upcoming event aims to connect Egypt’s expanding AI and startup landscape with global investors, policymakers, and major technology companies. The goal is to accelerate research, support implementation, and convert innovation into economic and social gains.

Hassan said the initiative aligns with national priorities that include workforce development, attracting foreign investment, strengthening governance frameworks, and expanding infrastructure. These efforts are expected to support sectors such as digital finance, cybersecurity, healthcare, manufacturing, and data infrastructure across Africa and the Middle East.

He emphasized that success will be measured by tangible outcomes rather than attendance. Key indicators include investment agreements, policy influence, and the number of startups that scale internationally through partnerships formed during the event.

The event is organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in partnership with the Information Technology Industry Development Agency, with support from global technology stakeholders. It is held under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, signaling strong government backing for Egypt’s AI ambitions.

Hassan said the platform builds on GITEX’s international network, which connects governments, investors, and industry groups to promote cross-border trade and long-term cooperation. These partnerships aim to strengthen Egypt’s role in areas such as semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, fintech, smart cities, and digital public services.

He pointed to Egypt’s structural advantages, including a large and digitally skilled population, strong engineering capacity, and national policies that support AI development. International benchmarks place Egypt among the leading countries in Africa for government AI readiness and among top performers in the Arab region for resilience in the sector. The country’s national AI strategy for 2025 to 2030 targets an annual economic contribution of $42.7 billion.

The event also seeks to expand access for emerging economies by bringing together participants from both developed and developing markets. Hassan said this model supports knowledge exchange, improves capital flows, and strengthens human capital.

With artificial intelligence expected to contribute $1.5 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030, Hassan said platforms like Ai Everything MEA are critical to building connected and inclusive technology ecosystems. He added that large-scale AI events are becoming core infrastructure for the digital economy, where policy alignment, investment, and industry collaboration converge to drive innovation.