Digital transformation in the Arab countries (GCC Member States): Legal basis and economic significance

In this study, the authors have identified the main directions of digital transformation in the member states of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, inter alia creation of smart cities (cities of the future), introduction of unified e-government portals and paperless document management, as well as widespread use of artificial intelligence. The authors have provided a retrospective and prognostic assessment of their impact on economic processes and placed the emphasis on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, since they are considered to be leaders in digitalisation in the Middle East, especially in terms of artificial intelligence, and strategical partners of the Russian Federation taking into account the enlargement of BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The researchers have described the existing legal gaps arising from implementing certain initiatives and megaprojects such as Smart Dubai and Neom. For instance, there is no clear unified legislative approach with regard to possible subjects of legal (in particular, criminal) liability in case of illegal use of artificial intelligence, as well as damage caused by automated errors. Nevertheless, it is possible to rely on the existing concepts of Islamic Shariah, as well as some interdisciplinary laws containing both criminal and civil law norms. The unique standing of industrial cities, technological zones, special economic (financial) zones and cities in Arab states do not imply exemptions from general criminal regulation, but it is not sufficient to respond to existing threats. It is necessary to introduce clarifying criminal-law norms applicable specifically to the use of artificial intelligence.

digital transformation, GCC, ECONOMIC PROCESSES, smart cities, criminal liability, artificial intelligence