AI Investments in META Region to Reach $14.6 Billion by 2028
Artificial intelligence (AI) spending in the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa (META) is on a sharp growth trajectory, with investments rising from $4.5 billion in 2024 to a projected $14.6 billion by 2028, reflecting a 34% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
According to the latest report by International Data Corporation (IDC), this surge in AI investments underscores the region’s commitment to an AI-driven digital economy. Organizations are moving beyond pilot projects to full-scale adoption, investing heavily in infrastructure, foundation models, governance frameworks, and AI-driven data architectures.
AI’s Economic Impact
IDC’s research estimates that AI will contribute $19.9 trillion to the global economy by 2030, representing 3.5% of global GDP. Moreover, every dollar spent on AI solutions is expected to generate an additional $4.6 in indirect and induced economic impact.
“AI is becoming the backbone of digital transformation in the META region,” said Crawford Del Prete, Global President at IDC. “With continued investments in digital infrastructure and AI governance, the region has the potential to set a global benchmark for innovation.”
Future Roadmap for AI in META
Despite AI’s rapid expansion, IDC Regional Managing Director Jyoti Lalchandani highlights the importance of scalable cloud solutions, robust AI ecosystems, and workforce upskilling to fully unlock AI’s potential.
With 89% of global IT leaders expecting stable or increased budgets for AI in 2025, the META region is poised to accelerate its AI adoption, drive digital transformation, and establish itself as a leader in the AI revolution.
