The summit « Artificial Intelligence Towards the Future 2026 » opened this Wednesday, September 9, in Yasmine Hammamet, at the initiative of the Arab Organization for Information and Communication Technologies (AICTO) and the Tunisian Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies.
This gathering is devoted to the technological transformations related to artificial intelligence and their repercussions on Arab economies and societies.
The Essentials
- The summit is being held September 9–10, 2026 in Yasmine Hammamet.
- It is under the theme “Shaping the Future of Artificial Intelligence: From Vision to Value”.
- Decision-makers, experts, government representatives and international organizations participate in the proceedings.
- More than 65% of the population of the Arab region would be under 30 years old, according to data presented at the summit.
- Discussions focus notably on employment, youth, sustainable development and the transformation of technological capacities into economic and social value.
Anticipating the Transformations Linked to Artificial Intelligence
In a statement given to Diwan FM, Nabil Fahmy stressed that the summit takes place in a context marked by significant political, economic and social challenges in the Arab region.
He emphasized the need for the region’s countries to reconcile managing current crises with preparing for the profound mutations induced by the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence.
The objective is thus not to limit public policies to addressing immediate difficulties, but also to anticipate changes likely to affect the economy, the labor market and Arab societies.
Youth at the Heart of the Challenges
The construction of future prospects for young people is among the main topics debated. According to figures presented at this meeting, more than 65% of inhabitants of the Arab region are under 30.
An initiative called “Renewed Arab Agenda” should also be presented during the summit. It centers on addressing current issues, developing individual and institutional capacities, and achieving the sustainable development goals.
Transforming Technological Capacities into Value
For two days, participants will examine ways to convert the artificial intelligence’s technical potential into concrete tools for development.
The discussions focus notably on job creation, empowerment of young people and the ability of Arab economies to take advantage of new technologies while adapting to the changes they bring.
The summit brings together policymakers, experts as well as government representatives and representatives of international organizations.
Several International Organizations Present
Several regional and international institutions take part in the proceedings, among which the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), UNESCO and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA/CESAO).
The Council of Europe, the Smart Africa Alliance, the Arab Union for the Digital Economy as well as the Arab Union of Internet and Telecommunications are also among the represented organizations.
The summit should thus serve as a platform for exchanging policies and mechanisms enabling Arab countries to move from strategic reflection on artificial intelligence to value-creating applications for the economy and society.
