Data, AI and energy are reshaping the GCC region and its global alliances. Here’s how

For decades, the post-WWII trans-Atlantic alliance shaped much of the international system. Today, as innovation, energy systems and digital infrastructure reshape global power, this alliance is transforming. Major powers are now engaging a broader set of partners, such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which are undergoing their own profound economic and technological transformation.

In this emerging global system, geopolitical leadership will increasingly be shaped by three core resources: data, the artificial intelligence (AI) to interpret and act on this data, and the energy required to fuel that intelligence. Together, these elements form the new currency of power, determining which nations, companies or institutions will lead in economics, security, science and governance.

Historically, investments from the GCC countries flowed west into US and European equities, real estate and debt. Today, however, GCC states are channeling sovereign wealth into strategic capabilities in AI, quantum computing and biotechnology, positioning themselves as significant contributors to this emerging ecosystem.

A clear example is the UAE’s launch of Stargate UAE, a 5-gigawatt AI data center in Abu Dhabi, set to become among the largest outside the US. Spearheaded by Abu Dhabi-based AI company G42 in collaboration with OpenAI, Nvidia, Oracle and Cisco, this facility will anchor regional AI and cloud infrastructure. The first 1-gigawatt phase goes live this year.

Meanwhile, sovereign wealth funds like Saudi Arabia’s PIF, Abu Dhabi’s ADIA, Mubadala, and Qatar’s QIA – some with assets exceeding $1 trillion – are deploying capital strategically into AI, genomics, climate tech and biotech for long-term economic resilience.

Beyond capital investment, this is a bid for scientific and technological resilience. By investing in data and research infrastructure, the GCC states are anchoring their future in innovation.

Today, data is the substrate of every major breakthrough, from extending human life to uncovering the origins of the universe. Data is generated at unprecedented scale and AI provides extraordinary tools to analyze and apply its insights. This transformation also highlights the importance of clear data ownership, informed consent and ethical frameworks to ensure that innovation advances public trust.

Furthermore, genomic medicine – once limited to traditional developed economies – is now scaling across the GCC. Large-scale initiatives, such as the Emirati, Qatar and Bahrain genome programmes, alongside advancements in AI diagnostics and digital health, are creating precision health systems. Data centres, advanced sequencing hubs and AI regulatory sandboxes are being deployed in Riyadh, Abu Dhabi and Doha. These facilities will serve local populations, but they will also contribute to advancing global innovation in science.

These public sector driven efforts allow for rapid deployment and scaling, creating new opportunities for the US and other international partners to collaborate in breakthrough research.

The US-European alliance remains a global leader in research and standards-setting. But institutional complexity and regulatory traditions, particularly around data and technology, are evolving alongside ongoing policy debates.

In parallel, the GCC countries can contribute distinct strengths to the global innovation ecosystem, including long-term capital, centralized coordination and an emphasis on large-scale infrastructure. China and India are also developing their own approaches to data governance and AI, contributing to a diverse set of models shaping global innovation.

Furthermore, while energy remains foundational to the US-GCC economic relationship, it is no longer the only pillar. The partnership now spans next-gen tech, health innovation and AI-enhanced science, where the GCC is committing significant long-term investment.

The GCC countries are positioning themselves to play an increasingly important role in data, AI, and energy innovation. From national genome programmes and AI-driven health platforms to green hydrogen and data governance, these nations are laying the foundation for long-term global relevance.

However, with influence comes responsibility. GCC governments, alongside other global actors, can help shape economic models, as well as ethical and inclusive frameworks for science. This includes ensuring equitable access to next-generation genomic and AI-enabled therapies, championing AI ethics and using science diplomacy to reinforce peace and prosperity.

A new era of alliances is emerging and it’s not driven by legacy ties, but by innovation. Today, major powers like the US are working with a broader range of partners. These partners offer capital, but also scientific vision and societal ambition.

GCC nations are no longer simply following global trends, they are increasingly contributing to the direction of global innovation.