Rising interest in AI PCs in Saudi Arabia & the UAE
Intel survey shows 60% of consumers look to AI PC upgrades
#UAE #ConsumerTech – A new consumer survey by Intel reveals strong demand for AI-powered personal computers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with over 60% of respondents saying they would “definitely” purchase an AI PC. The survey, released during April 2025, highlights a generational shift in computing expectations, with younger users particularly excited about features like real-time translation, predictive input, and accessibility tools. Despite high awareness, actual usage remains low—only 6% currently own an AI PC—presenting a major growth opportunity for the sector.
SO WHAT? – The findings indicate a fast-emerging market for AI-enabled consumer devices in the Gulf, especially as public awareness rises and productivity-driven features gain appeal. For hardware makers, software developers, and retailers, the message is clear: the Middle East seems to be ready for the AI PC era, at least in terms of consumer sentiment.
Some key takeaways from the AI PC survey:
60.8% of survey respondents in the UAE and Saudi Arabia say they would “definitely” upgrade to an AI PC, with another 29% saying “probably,” according to a new survey from semiconductor giant Intel .
Only 6% currently own an AI-powered PC, despite 44% being aware of the concept, highlighting a strong opportunity to drive conversion through education and demonstrations.
Most popular features cited include predictive text input, real-time translation, and tools that support accessibility, underscoring demand for AI that improves daily productivity.
Privacy concerns may prove to be a motivator for buying AI PCs, with 85% of those surveyed showing some data privacy concerns about using AI.
Users who spend 10–19 hours weekly on a PC show the highest intent to adopt AI PCs, likely due to their openness to productivity enhancements.
Heavy users (20+ hours/week) are less inclined to upgrade, possibly due to current satisfaction or compatibility concerns.
The study confirms the region’s growing tech maturity and openness to AI-driven personal technology, particularly among younger demographics.
The research suggests targeted marketing and value demonstrations will be key to expanding AI PC adoption beyond early awareness.
Intel’s report also points to the role of regional digital literacy campaigns in preparing consumers for emerging AI hardware.
ZOOM OUT – With global PC markets stabilising after a double-digit decline in shipments during 2023, AI integration may offer some light at the end of the tunnel for manufacturers. With the Gulf region’s spending power and affinity for all things AI, it could emerge as a high-growth testing ground for AI PCs. With regional markets like the UAE and Saudi Arabia embracing AI at a rapid rate, thee markets could offer strong potential for early mass adoption of AI PCs, especially with their young, tech-forward populations. In fact, the arrival of embedded AI, could turn the Gulf markets into the ideal testing ground for next-gen tech.