The Globalization of Artificial Intelligence and Regional Integration in West Asia

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran, Iran.

2 PhD Student of Regional Studies, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jices.2025.395842.1093

Abstract

AI, as a leading technology in the 21st century, has had widespread impacts on various political, economic, and social aspects globally. The present paper tries to answer the question of how this technology can be used as a tool to facilitate regional cooperation in West Asia and strengthen convergence among the countries in the region. The neo-functionalism theory, emphasizing the role of technical cooperation in creating mutual dependence among states, provides an appropriate framework for analyzing this issue. Based on this theory, cooperation in technical domains can lead to cooperation in other areas and bring about the convergence of countries in the region. The research method employed in this research is practical, aiming to connect two different domains: "technical issues" and "regional integration," in a developmental approach. It is hypothesized that artificial intelligence, as an interdisciplinary technology, can help create cooperation networks among countries. The findings show that these networks not only promote knowledge and technology exchange but also have the potential to increase mutual trust among nations. Since West Asia stands at the crossroads of AI globalization, current choices will significantly influence its socio-economic trajectory and cultural resilience in the coming years. AI-driven integration in West Asia presents a dual narrative of technological ambition and continuous fragmentation. While PersianGulf countries demonstrate AI's potential to transcend traditional economic boundaries through smart infrastructure and digital services, broader regional integration requires addressing critical gaps in governance capacity, cultural adaptation, and sustainable implementation. The emergence of Arabic-language AI systems offers unprecedented opportunities for knowledge sharing among Arab-countries, but concurrent risks such as algorithmic bias and excessive energy consumption call for proactive policy responses.

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