The Middle East markets are recovering faster than anyone expected. Despite regional tensions, geopolitical uncertainty, and global economic headwinds, tech valuations are up, deal flow is strong, and enterprise spending hasn't slowed. I'm watching this play out in real time. We're closing deals in Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Doha faster this quarter than last. Enterprises are still buying, still investing in AI infrastructure, still moving forward. Here's why: The GCC isn't waiting for global stability to invest in technology. They're using this moment to build infrastructure while others are hesitating. Sovereign AI, data centers, digital transformation, these are national priorities backed by state capital. That doesn't pause during geopolitical volatility. For startups, this is the opportunity. While competitors pull back or delay expansion into the region, the ones moving forward are capturing market share that will compound for years. The recovery isn't coming. It's already here. The question is whether you're positioned to capture it.
The GCC's commitment to sovereign AI and digital infrastructure is impressive to see. Mihai's right that this momentum creates real opportunities for those ready to engage. With 23 years in hospitality tech, I've seen how regions that bet on transformation during uncertainty often leapfrog competitors. The parallel is striking—whether building guest experiences or national AI capabilities, the principle holds: invest when others hesitate.
Looking forward to having you in Doha again!
That's what I love about this market, they always ready themselves, I find the GCC fantastic at navigating uncertainty by always moving and looking forward. And that's what I tell the European founders I advise looking to enter this market: don't delay your plans, if you keep delaying you'll be taken over by someone who hasn't hesitated.