As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes economies and governance worldwide, Iraq is significantly behind its regional counterparts in AI readiness, according to the 2024 Government AI Readiness Index. While nations such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Israel continue to make substantial progress in AI infrastructure and strategy, Iraq struggles without a clear national AI vision or the technological capacity to compete. The Government AI Readiness Index places Iraq among the lowest-performing countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, highlighting critical weaknesses in three key areas: government AI strategy, technological sector maturity, and data infrastructure. With a total AI readiness score far below the global average, Iraq faces challenges in governance frameworks, AI policy implementation, and digital infrastructure.
The contrast between Iraq and its neighbors is stark. The UAE leads the MENA region with a score of 75.66, ranking among the top 15 AI-ready nations globally. Saudi Arabia follows closely with a score of 72.36, fueled by its $100 billion AI investment initiative, Project Transcendence. Israel, known for its pioneering AI research and cybersecurity expertise, scores 74.52, cementing its position as a global leader in AI. In comparison, Iraq’s ranking is alarmingly low, a result of insufficient government-led AI initiatives, minimal AI research output, and limited investment in technological innovation. Despite the rapid progress in neighboring countries, Iraq has yet to develop a national AI strategy—an essential step taken by most AI-leading nations. Without a clear governance framework and targeted investment in AI, Iraq risks falling behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, losing opportunities to modernize public services, boost economic productivity, and enhance national security through AI-driven solutions.
Iraq’s technological infrastructure remains one of its biggest hurdles to AI development. High-performance computing, cloud infrastructure, and large datasets are crucial for AI applications, but these resources are sorely lacking in Iraq. Outdated internet and telecommunications infrastructure pose significant barriers to AI adoption, limiting engagement in both public and private sector AI research and development. In addition, Iraq faces a shortage of skilled human capital to drive AI innovation. Nations leading in AI readiness have prioritized STEM education, AI research, and digital skills development, whereas Iraq is grappling with a brain drain as top talent migrates abroad in search of better opportunities in technology sectors. The lack of robust university programs in AI and machine learning further compounds this issue, leaving Iraq with insufficient expertise to thrive in the global AI economy.
AI development also requires strong cybersecurity and data governance frameworks. Effective AI implementation demands regulatory measures to ensure ethical usage, data protection, and security from cyber threats. However, Iraq lacks comprehensive data protection laws and institutions focused on AI ethics and governance. Without these safeguards, Iraq remains vulnerable to digital risks and struggles to build public trust in AI technologies. Despite these challenges, Iraq still has the potential to improve its AI readiness if decisive action is taken. The first priority should be the creation of a national AI strategy, with clear guidelines for AI integration across government operations, education, and the private sector. Establishing AI research centers and partnering with international tech firms could help accelerate Iraq’s AI ecosystem. Additionally, investing in digital infrastructure, such as expanding internet connectivity and upgrading cloud computing facilities, is crucial to bridging the technological gap.
A strong emphasis on AI education in universities and technical institutes is vital to prepare the next generation with the necessary skills for the digital economy. Fostering AI entrepreneurship and supporting a tech-driven startup ecosystem could further accelerate growth. As the global AI landscape rapidly evolves, Iraq faces a critical juncture. The time for action is now. Without immediate and strategic interventions, Iraq risks falling further behind while its regional neighbors build strong AI ecosystems. Delaying AI adoption could have long-term consequences for Iraq’s economic growth and technological sovereignty. To secure a prosperous future, Iraq must act quickly to harness the potential of AI.