Iraq Lags in AI Readiness as Neighbors Advance

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms global economies and governance, Iraq finds itself lagging significantly behind its regional counterparts in AI readiness, according to the newly released 2024 Government AI Readiness Index.

While countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Israel continue making strides in AI infrastructure and strategy, Iraq remains stagnant, lacking a comprehensive national AI vision and the necessary technological capacity to compete in the digital age.

The Government AI Readiness Index ranks Iraq among the lowest-performing nations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, highlighting severe deficiencies in three key pillars: government AI strategy, technological sector maturity, and data infrastructure.

With a total AI readiness score that falls well below the global average, Iraq struggles with weak governance frameworks, a lack of AI policy implementation, and underdeveloped digital infrastructure.

The contrast between Iraq and its neighbors is striking.

The United Arab Emirates leads the MENA region with a score of 75.66, placing it among the world’s top 15 AI-ready nations. Saudi Arabia follows closely with a score of 72.36, bolstered by its $100 billion AI investment initiative, Project Transcendence. Israel, a pioneer in AI research and cybersecurity, ranks among the global leaders with a score of 74.52.

In comparison, Iraq's ranking is alarmingly low, reflecting a lack of government-led AI initiatives, inadequate AI research output, and minimal investment in technological innovation.

Despite the rapid advancements seen in the region, Iraq has yet to announce a national AI strategy, a critical step that most AI-leading nations have already undertaken.

Without a clear framework for AI governance and investment, the country risks falling further behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, losing opportunities to modernize public services, enhance economic productivity, and strengthen national security through AI-driven solutions.

Challenges in Iraq’s AI Landscape

One of Iraq’s biggest hurdles is its weak technological infrastructure. AI development relies heavily on access to high-performance computing, cloud infrastructure, and large datasets, all of which remain underdeveloped in Iraq.

The country’s outdated internet and telecommunications infrastructure pose a significant barrier to the adoption of AI-driven technologies, limiting both public and private sector engagement in AI research and application.

Moreover, Iraq lacks the necessary human capital to drive AI innovation. Countries leading in AI readiness have prioritized STEM education, AI research, and digital skills development. In contrast, Iraq faces a brain drain, with many of its top talents migrating abroad due to limited opportunities in AI and technology sectors.

The absence of robust university programs focused on AI and machine learning further exacerbates this gap, leaving the country without the skilled workforce needed to compete in the AI-driven global economy.

Cybersecurity and data governance are also major concerns. AI implementation requires strong regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical usage, data protection, and security measures against cyber threats. Iraq has yet to implement comprehensive data protection laws or establish institutions dedicated to AI ethics and governance.

Without these critical safeguards, the country remains vulnerable to digital risks and lacks the foundational policies needed to build public trust in AI.

The Road Ahead: Urgent Need for AI Investment

While Iraq lags in AI readiness, the potential for advancement remains if decisive actions are taken. Developing a national AI strategy should be the first priority, with clear guidelines on AI integration into government operations, education, and the private sector.

Establishing AI research centers and fostering partnerships with international tech firms could help accelerate Iraq’s AI ecosystem.

Investing in digital infrastructure is another critical step. Expanding internet connectivity, upgrading cloud computing facilities, and fostering AI entrepreneurship could help Iraq narrow the technological gap.

Additionally, prioritizing AI education in universities and technical institutes will be crucial in equipping the next generation with the skills necessary for the future digital economy.

As the world moves swiftly into an AI-driven era, Iraq faces a critical juncture. Without immediate and strategic interventions, the country risks being left behind while its neighbors establish themselves as AI powerhouses. T

he time for action is now—delaying AI adoption could prove costly for Iraq’s long-term economic growth and technological sovereignty.