Advancing Digital Cooperation in the Gulf: A New Executive Program
Introduction to Regional Digital Collaboration
In an era where technology is reshaping nations, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) have initiated a significant step forward in regional digital integration. Recently, both organizations convened a high-level dialogue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aimed at finalizing strategies for data governance, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital governance through an Executive Program that will steer cooperative efforts until 2026.
Key Outcomes of the Riyadh Dialogue
The meeting attracted prominent officials and industry experts, focusing on enhancing digital collaboration across member states. A major highlight was the signing of an Executive Program by H.E. Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, the GCC Secretary-General, and Deemah AlYahya, the DCO Secretary-General. This document builds on an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and outlines a shared strategy for future cooperation.
Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi expressed gratitude towards the DCO for its continued involvement in strengthening the digital economy within the GCC region. He stressed the importance of topics discussed during the dialogue, such as the empowerment of women in tech, misinformation management, e-waste recycling, and establishing legal frameworks for startups.
Core Focus Areas for Digital Advancement
The subjects of the dialogue are critical building blocks for the GCC’s roadmap toward sustainable economic growth and digital transformation. AlBudaiwi noted, “We aim to create a cohesive system that not only addresses the demands of our digital age but also safeguards our environment and cultural heritage.”
The Digital Space Accelerators (DSAs), a cooperative initiative forged by the DCO, are designed to facilitate discussions among policymakers, private sector leaders, and experts on shared digital challenges. Over two years, the panels have tackled pressing issues like women’s participation in information and communications technology (ICT), e-waste concerns, misinformation, and policies supporting startups.
Transitioning from Dialogue to Action
Deemah AlYahya emphasized the need for actionable strategies during her address. Highlighting a recent declaration from the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council, she indicated that the digital economy is not only a timeless opportunity but also pivotal for future development in the GCC. “With this shared vision, we are committed to transitioning from discussions to tangible outcomes,” she noted, affirming that the initiatives by the DCO are fostering meaningful change in the region.
AlYahya further underscored the importance of addressing digital skills, trust, and inclusion within this partnership. “Our collaborative efforts are not only focused on the aspirations of the GCC but are also adaptable for international relationships, fostering a spirit of shared digital prosperity,” she affirmed.
Spotlight on Upcoming Initiatives
During the dialogue, four essential panels discussed current priorities and next steps for regional progress. These initiatives include:
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Empowerment of Women in the Digital Sector: This panel aims to launch national campaigns, develop a gender gap analysis tool, and create a new employment and mentorship platform.
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E-Waste Management: The second initiative supports a regional rollout of Saudi Arabia’s "Recycle Your Device" program, with the implementation scheduled to align with E-Waste Day in September.
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Combating Misinformation: Thirdly, a regional working group led by Kuwait will work under the DCO’s content integrity framework to tackle online misinformation.
- Supporting Startups: The final panel focuses on adopting the DCO’s Model Startup Act, which aims to construct aligned ecosystems for startups across member states.
Shaping the Future of Digital Cooperation
The signed Executive Program lays down a cooperative framework that extends through 2026, detailing collaborative efforts across critical areas such as digital governance, AI ethics, data policies, and legislative alignment. This program also establishes mechanisms to evaluate progress and ensure effective implementation.
Additionally, the Executive Program encourages trilateral partnerships, extending initiatives to other regional blocs including ASEAN, Central Asia, and the European Union. These collaborations emphasize capacity building, technology governance, and aligned policymaking in digital skills, startup support, and AI ethics.
Policy Recommendations as a Roadmap
The DCO plans to synthesize insights from the DSAs and the findings from this recent dialogue into policy recommendations for the upcoming GCC Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy in October 2025. This strategic meeting will be crucial for embedding these joint initiatives into both national and regional frameworks.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Digital Integration
The meetings in Riyadh reinforced the pivotal role of both the DCO and the GCC in fostering a cooperative digital landscape in the region. They illustrated a growing consensus on the need to streamline shared frameworks, enhance institutional collaboration, and expedite progress in critical digital sectors.
For more information on the Digital Cooperation Organization, its member states, and its initiatives, visit DCO.org or follow @DCOrg on Twitter and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, contact media@DCO.org.
