This paper explores the case for greater dialogue and cooperation on AI and AI governance between Southeast Asia and the Gulf. While the two regions differ significantly, they share several priorities: accelerating AI-enabled economic development, maintaining national autonomy, strengthening security, and avoiding excessive dependence on the world’s leading AI powers.
Key Takeaways
- A fragmented global AI order creates space for regional rule-shaping. With the US, EU, and China pursuing different AI governance models, Southeast Asia and the Gulf have an opportunity to develop approaches better suited to their own economic, security, and development priorities.
- Southeast Asia brings large digital markets, manufacturing capacity, and growing infrastructure demand, while Gulf countries offer capital, energy expertise, sovereign financing, and expanding AI capabilities.
- Cooperation should focus on practical, flexible partnerships. The paper recommends deeper dialogue and collaboration through bilateral and sector-specific initiatives in areas such as AI infrastructure, financial services, digital government, workforce development, regulatory sandboxes, and AI assurance.