AMMAN — The Information and Communications Technology Association of Jordan (int@j) contributes in shaping the methodology of the 2026 WITSA Global AI Index, which highlighted the Kingdom's strengths in data and research collaboration while identifying priorities for expanding investment in and the application of artificial intelligence (AI).

 

The association said on Thursday that it had participated in an international committee comprising 22 experts from 18 economies, which was responsible for reviewing and approving the index's assessment criteria, weighting system and scoring methodology.

 

The index covers 128 economies, 105 of which were assessed using 83 indicators across seven areas; infrastructure, talent, entrepreneurship, applications, data, policies and investment. It does not provide an overall country ranking, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

 

Jordan scored 60.2 out of 100 in data, its strongest-performing category, and 41.2 in policies, above the global average of 40.3.

 

The Kingdom also ranked 12th among 77 economies in international scientific co-authorship links among AI researchers, reflecting its participation in global research networks.

 

The report identified several priorities for Jordan, including expanding AI applications across government institutions, directing allocations under the national AI strategy towards research and investment, supporting technology start-ups and drawing on the expertise of Jordanian professionals abroad.

 

Int@j board member Majdi Armouti, who represented the association on the international committee, said Jordan's capabilities in data, policy development and research provided a solid foundation for commercial growth.

 

He called for greater support for specialised AI companies, wider adoption of practical applications and improved access to financing to translate research and technical expertise into marketable products and services, as well as employment opportunities.

 

The association said the index was designed to help governments and businesses identify gaps in their AI ecosystems and direct funding, training and investment towards clearly defined priorities.

 

CEO of int@j Nidal Bitar, serves on WITSA's board of directors and chairs its Business Development Committee, which focuses on expanding programmes, partnerships and revenue streams to support the alliance's activities.

 

Launched in Taipei on September 1, 2026, the index provides a framework for monitoring the development of AI ecosystems and identifying investment needs.

 

WITSA brings together technology industry associations from around the world to promote cooperation, knowledge exchange, trade and investment in information and communications technology. Int@j represents Jordan in the alliance.