Launch of the “Google AI Accelerator” Program to Support Startups in the Middle East and North Africa

Pioneer Investors – Google announced the launch of the first edition of the “Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First” program at an event held at the Dubai Future Foundation. Fifteen promising startups from across the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey were gathered, all distinguished by AI-driven projects addressing diverse challenges in health, agriculture, sustainability, finance, and support for people with disabilities.

The selection of these startups was part of a comprehensive vision aimed at supporting AI-based startups in enhancing their applications to tackle urgent social and economic issues. This vision involves providing these companies with advanced Google technologies and connecting them to a broad network of specialists, entrepreneurs, and experts, helping them achieve accelerated growth.

Commenting on the importance of AI in the region, Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google in the Middle East and North Africa, said, “AI represents a radical change factor in the global economy, and the Arab region is at a critical crossroads with this transformation. The UAE is leading this journey towards adopting AI to achieve innovation and societal growth, advancing regional progress toward a digital future.”

The intensive program began on October 21 and will run for ten weeks, during which entrepreneurs participate in workshops and discussions with advisors and experts across various technological fields. The goal is to develop their projects and strategies in line with local and regional aspirations. Paris Yasogi, Head of Developer and Startup Relations at Google in the region, commented, “Our goal is to facilitate the best possible growth for AI startups, focusing on helping them solve challenges and develop innovative growth strategies.”

The “Google for Startups Accelerator” program represents a strategic step toward making the Arab region a hub for technological innovation. It reflects Google’s commitment to supporting digital transformation and entrepreneurship, as the company believes that empowering youth in these fields is the key to building a promising economic future.