Kuwait showcased its innovative youth talent, ambitious national initiatives, and leading role in driving Arab digital transformation at the second edition of the Arab Technology Forum (Meet Arab Tech), held Monday evening in Lisbon as part of the Web Summit technology conference. The event highlighted Kuwait’s commitment to supporting innovation and its national vision of technology as a key pillar of economic and social development.
## Kuwait’s Participation in Meet Arab Tech 2023
Kuwait’s Ambassador to Portugal, Hamad Al-Hazim, told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the country’s participation in this prominent global event reflects a genuine contribution to international dialogue on the future of technology. This participation strengthens Kuwait’s presence and influence in the global digital arena. Al-Hazim emphasized that Kuwait’s efforts are focused on nurturing a generation of skilled youth capable of excelling in artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and cloud computing.
The Meet Arab Tech forum serves as an ideal platform to enhance cooperation between the Arab and European private sectors. It also provides an opportunity to explore new avenues for joint projects in the fields of technology and AI. The event aligns with Kuwait’s vision of becoming a leading regional hub for developing and exporting artificial intelligence solutions. This vision is supported by Kuwait’s strategic location, advanced infrastructure, modern legislation, and digitally skilled youth.
## Driving Digital Transformation in Kuwait
Ambassador Al-Hazim highlighted Kuwait’s pioneering achievements in digital transformation, particularly in e-government services through the “Sahel” application. This application enables citizens and residents to complete transactions easily via their smartphones without visiting government offices. The ambassador noted that technology and digital innovation represent promising areas of cooperation between Kuwait and Portugal, as both countries share similar visions of advancing digital transformation and building knowledge-based economies.
Portugal is a European leader in fostering innovation and startups, while Kuwait continues to implement its New Kuwait 2035 Vision. This vision seeks to establish a diversified, technology-driven economy. The shared outlook between the two nations creates broad opportunities for cooperation between government entities and the private sectors in both countries. Dawood Marafi, former Minister of State for Communications, Youth and National Assembly Affairs, participated in the forum representing Kuwait’s private sector. He affirmed that Kuwait is emerging as a leading regional hub for developing and exporting artificial intelligence solutions.
## Kuwait’s Vision for a Technology-Driven Economy
Marafi explained that Kuwait has begun channeling real investments toward nurturing digital talent through national skills development programs. These programs are conducted in partnership with global technology firms, including Google Cloud, Microsoft, and Boeing. The initiatives align with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the broader Gulf trend of building local capabilities and designing systems rather than merely using applications.
The Arab Technology Forum (Meet Arab Tech) is held annually as part of the three-day Web Summit in the Portuguese capital. The event brings together technology leaders, media, government officials, innovators, and investors to highlight the latest global advancements and explore opportunities for future collaboration and partnerships. The forum provides a platform for Kuwait to demonstrate its human and institutional potential, positioning it as an essential partner in shaping the technological future.
## Conclusion
Kuwait’s participation in the Arab Technology Forum (Meet Arab Tech) 2023 showcases its commitment to driving digital transformation and innovation. The event highlights Kuwait’s efforts to nurture a generation of skilled youth and its pioneering achievements in e-government services. With its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and digitally skilled youth, Kuwait is well-positioned to become a leading regional hub for developing and exporting artificial intelligence solutions. As the country continues to implement its New Kuwait 2035 Vision, it is expected to create new opportunities for cooperation between government entities and the private sectors in Kuwait and Portugal. The success of Meet Arab Tech 2023 sets the stage for future collaborations and innovations, driving the Arab digital transformation forward.
