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In an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency Sami Smeirat said Jordan is building a national ecosystem to harness data and advanced technologies amid accelerating global shifts toward an AI-driven economy. The minister noted that international competition to acquire artificial intelligence capabilities and related investments has intensified yet the kingdom is transitioning from establishing policies and regulatory frameworks to expanding practical applications. This strategic pivot according to Smeirat will strengthen Jordan’s position to match worldwide technological changes while cementing its role as a regional hub for technology and innovation.
Smeirat told Qatar News Agency that the executive plan for Jordan’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy covering 2023 to 2027 contains 68 projects and initiatives. A 2025 progress report he cited shows 14 projects completed for approximately 21 percent with work underway on an additional 28 representing about 42 percent. The combined total of projects that have entered implementation or completion stages thus stands at 42 or roughly 62 percent of the overall plan the minister reported.
The minister outlined that these advances form the groundwork for a new phase in the AI economy with an emphasis on translating strategic goals into tangible programs across economic sectors. Jordan’s approach aligns with broader efforts in the Middle East where according to a PwC assessment artificial intelligence adoption could add up to 14 percent to regional GDP by 2030 through productivity gains and new business models. Smeirat highlighted that the strategy positions the kingdom to foster innovation not only domestically but across the region by creating opportunities for investment employment and technological development.
Implementation of a national program for AI awareness and capacity building is also progressing Smeirat told Qatar News Agency. The initiative targets training 15,000 government employees by the end of 2027 with more than 9,000 staff from over 90 institutions having completed sessions by the close of 2025. Such efforts according to the minister equip public institutions to integrate AI tools effectively supporting improved service delivery and operational efficiency.
Smeirat indicated that the focus on practical applications extends to developing an enabling environment that attracts AI-related investments and stimulates cross-border collaboration. The minister’s comments come as several GCC states including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have similarly launched national AI strategies with the latter’s reported by the World Bank to have already channeled billions into infrastructure and talent development. Jordan’s progress on 62 percent of its planned projects places it on track to contribute to these regional dynamics while addressing local priorities such as enhancing public services and boosting economic productivity.
The Hashemite Kingdom’s AI push reflects a measured response to global trends where according to International Monetary Fund projections artificial intelligence technologies could boost GDP growth rates in emerging markets by between 1.5 and 2.5 percentage points annually over the next decade. Smeirat stressed that sustained implementation of the remaining projects will be key to realizing these benefits. The minister’s interview underscores Jordan’s commitment to leveraging AI as a driver of sustainable development and innovation throughout the wider region.
