GAIN Summit in Riyadh to Showcase Global Experiences on AI Use in Supporting Business Leaders

GAIN Summit in Riyadh to Showcase Global Experiences on AI Use in Supporting Business Leaders
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GAIN Summit in Riyadh to Showcase Global Experiences on AI Use in Supporting Business Leaders

GAIN Summit in Riyadh to Showcase Global Experiences on AI Use in Supporting Business Leaders

The third edition of the Global AI (GAIN) Summit, organized by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) will be held in Riyadh on September 10-12.

The summit will showcase the global experiences in the field of artificial intelligence technologies, including those that focus on the importance of business leaders' understanding of rapidly developing AI technologies, and reflecting on how to increase production driven by strategic decision-making.

The deliberations of over 300 speakers, including experts, specialists, and decision-makers from 100 countries will present business leaders and those interested in the field of data and AI with promising options and opportunities to benefit from the technologies.

The speakers will deliberate on the most effective methods of utilizing AI to make strategic decisions, support responsible leadership, analyze the extent of the impact of AI on the growth of business activities and productivity, and motivate employees within an attractive work environment that meets the aspirations of business leaders.

The summit will underscore the importance of senior leaders and policymakers in making strategic decisions, determining the scope and directions of work, and achieving a competitive advantage for business. These decisions are guided by organizational policies, available resources, future plans, and other decisions based on AI.

According to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, productivity growth and improvement of manufacturing processes were five times faster when AI was used to adjust processes, identify shortcomings, and reduce waste and errors.

Predictive maintenance can also reduce downtime and speed up the pace of production, allowing the plant to increase production with the same or fewer inputs.



Iran-Israel Tensions Threaten Global Trade, Energy Security

An aerial view of Haifa Port in northern Israel before the onset of military tensions with Iran (Reuters). 
An aerial view of Haifa Port in northern Israel before the onset of military tensions with Iran (Reuters). 
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Iran-Israel Tensions Threaten Global Trade, Energy Security

An aerial view of Haifa Port in northern Israel before the onset of military tensions with Iran (Reuters). 
An aerial view of Haifa Port in northern Israel before the onset of military tensions with Iran (Reuters). 

The intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel is raising serious concerns over the safety of global trade routes and energy supplies. As the situation escalates, analysts warn of severe repercussions for the global economy, particularly if strategic maritime passages like the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb are compromised.

Experts highlight that any disruption to these chokepoints - through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas flows - could send shockwaves through international markets.

Rising insurance premiums, increased shipping costs, and a potential surge in energy prices are among the immediate risks. Such instability could accelerate global inflation and weaken already fragile economic growth, especially as major economies face tariff-related pressures and slowing demand.

According to Dr. Fawaz Al-Alamy, a specialist in international trade, the continuing geopolitical unrest is likely to slow global trade growth by over 7% in 2025 and 2026. Sea freight, which carries about 90% of global trade, is particularly vulnerable. Dr. Al-Alamy also points to revised forecasts from major institutions, with trade growth now expected to drop to 2.9% in 2025 and possibly lower in 2026.

The Gulf region, which last year ranked sixth globally in merchandise trade, faces specific challenges. The Strait of Hormuz alone handled over 25% of global seaborne oil and 20% of LNG shipments in 2024 and early 2025. A disruption here would hit Asian markets hardest, as China, India, Japan, and South Korea together receive nearly 70% of Gulf crude exports.

The United States also imports around 500,000 barrels per day from the Gulf via Hormuz, about 7% of its total crude imports. A supply interruption could double oil prices and drive maritime shipping costs up by 60%, leading to slower global growth, reminiscent of post-COVID economic conditions.

Still, Al-Alamy sees potential for regional cooperation. Gulf states could invest in alternative export routes through the Arabian Sea and Red Sea, and strengthen trade ties with Asia, Africa, and Europe. Logistics and tech investments may also help the region emerge as a global trade hub.