From IDM 2.0 to AI in the GCC, Intel’s Taha Khalifa shares his insights

As the GCC region rapidly transforms through digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a cornerstone of innovation and economic growth. Intel, a global leader in semiconductor technology, is playing a pivotal role in supporting this evolution. Here, Taha Khalifa, director of CCG Enterprise & Government Solutions, and EMEA & GCC country manager at Intel, shares his insights into AI’s transformative potential in the region and Intel’s contributions through its IDM 2.0 strategy.

What is the potential of AI in the GCC region?

The GCC region is experiencing rapid digital transformation, with AI at its core. This technology holds immense potential to revolutionise industries and contribute significantly to economic growth. Estimates suggest that AI could add a staggering $320bn to Middle Eastern economies by 2030.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading the charge with substantial government investments in AI infrastructure and talent development.

The UAE has established the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence to position itself as a global leader in this field, focusing on integrating AI into various sectors, including healthcare, where AI technologies are being used to enhance patient outcomes.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasises AI’s role in diversifying the economy away from oil dependency, with initiatives like the Fourth Industrial Revolution Centre at Aramco showcasing AI’s environmental benefits.

How is Intel supporting the region’s AI ambitions?

The company is committed to supporting the GCC region’s AI aspirations through our Integrated Device Manufacturing (IDM) 2.0 strategy.

This approach involves a combination of internal manufacturing, third-party foundry partnerships, and the establishment of Intel Foundry Services (IFS).

By doing so, the company aims to provide GCC businesses with access to cutting-edge technology, packaging solutions and a vast IP portfolio.

Additionally, Intel is focused on enhancing digital literacy, improving skills, and offering training to support the region’s digital transformation goals.

How does Intel’s IDM 2.0 strategy benefit GCC businesses?

The IDM 2.0 strategy offers several advantages to GCC businesses and beyond. It ensures a reliable supply of advanced process technology, enhances product flexibility and scale, and creates a strong foundation for future innovation.

By combining internal manufacturing, third-party foundry partnerships, and IFS, we can optimise product roadmaps for cost, performance, schedule, and supply, ultimately empowering GCC businesses to compete effectively in the global market.

How is Intel making AI accessible to businesses of all sizes in the GCC?

We are dedicated to democratising AI, making it accessible and beneficial to businesses of all sizes.

The company’s focus on developing cutting-edge technologies that deliver flexibility, security, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness is crucial in achieving this goal. Intel’s Lunar Lake architecture, for example, will bring high-performance AI capabilities to laptops and PCs, while Xeon 6 processors offer exceptional performance and power efficiency for data centres.

These innovations empower businesses to harness the power of AI and drive growth.

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