Artificial Intelligence to Take Center Stage at World Government Summit in Dubai

Chairman of the World Government Summit (WGS) Organization Mohammad al-Gergawi during a press conference held to reveal the summit's themes last January. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Chairman of the World Government Summit (WGS) Organization Mohammad al-Gergawi during a press conference held to reveal the summit's themes last January. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Artificial Intelligence to Take Center Stage at World Government Summit in Dubai

Chairman of the World Government Summit (WGS) Organization Mohammad al-Gergawi during a press conference held to reveal the summit's themes last January. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Chairman of the World Government Summit (WGS) Organization Mohammad al-Gergawi during a press conference held to reveal the summit's themes last January. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Artificial Intelligence and the next frontiers are among the main themes addressed by the upcoming World Government Summit 2024, held in Dubai on February 12-14, due to its profound impact across various key sectors and the potential major transformation it could bring to communities worldwide.

The WGS will host more than 100 personalities and leaders of giant AI companies and will bring together business owners, AI experts and major players, alongside government leaders in meetings that aim to result in solutions that empower governments to keep pace with AI developments and be fully prepared to deal with its challenges and utilize its great potential.

Such meetings also aim to create frameworks to face AI challenges through dialogue and partnerships, according to Emirates News Agency (WAM).

The list of WGS attendees also includes a host of top experts, CEOs and founders of major AI, advanced technology, and smart applications companies, and pioneers of AI integration.

The Summit agenda is full of sessions, workshops, and side events addressing the various aspects of AI and its applications. The Artificial Intelligence Forum will act as a catalyst for international cooperation and multi-sector partnerships, further driving responsible AI-centric progress for the benefit of all communities.

The Forum looks into reaching a global consensus on developing and adopting principles of responsible AI by launching global dialogues that bring together private and public sector officials. It also addresses enhancing AI capabilities by developing education and infrastructure sectors and formulating future policies.



Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
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Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)

As Saudi companies start reporting their Q2 financial results, experts are optimistic about the transport and logistics sector. They expect a 10% annual growth, with total net profits reaching around SAR 900 million ($240 million), driven by tourism and an economic corridor project.

In Q1, the seven listed transport and logistics companies in Saudi Arabia showed positive results, with combined profits increasing by 5.8% to SAR 818.7 million ($218 million) compared to the previous year.

Four companies reported profit growth, while three saw declines, including two with losses, according to Arbah Capital.

Al Rajhi Capital projects significant gains for Q2 compared to last year: Lumi Rental’s profits are expected to rise by 31% to SAR 65 million, SAL’s by 76% to SAR 192 million, and Theeb’s by 23% to SAR 37 million.

On the other hand, Aljazira Capital predicts a 13% decrease in Lumi Rental’s net profit to SAR 43 million, despite a 44% rise in revenue. This is due to higher operational costs post-IPO.

SAL’s annual profit is expected to grow by 76% to SAR 191.6 million, driven by a 29% increase in revenue and higher profit margins.

Aljazira Capital also expects a 2.8% drop in the sector’s net profit from Q1 due to lower profits for SAL and Seera, caused by reduced revenue and profit margins.

Mohammad Al Farraj, Head of Asset Management at Arbah Capital, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the sector’s continued profit growth is supported by seasonal factors like summer travel and higher demand for transport services.

He predicts Q2 profits will reach around SAR 900 million ($240 million), up 10% from Q1.

Al Farraj highlighted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking India with the GCC and Europe, is expected to boost sector growth by improving trade and transport connections.

However, he warned that companies may still face challenges, including rising costs and workforce shortages.