LEBANON - Lebanon is preparing to unveil a Gulf-backed investment in its digital sector in the coming weeks, Minister of State for Technology and Artificial Intelligence Kamal Shehadi said.

Speaking to The National on the sidelines of the General Assembly of the Digital Co-operation Organisation (DCO) in Kuwait, Minister Shehadi said the project would focus on developing digital services and would be backed by a Gulf investor, though he declined to specify which country.

He said the announcement was expected “in the next few weeks.” The move comes as Gulf states gradually re-engage with Lebanon after years of strained relations.

Minister Shehadi stressed that Lebanon was seeking partnerships rather than aid. “What we are looking for are investments that are transparent, competitive, and aligned with our national agenda,” he said, describing the planned digital projects as mutually beneficial.

The minister highlighted Lebanon’s talent pool and global entrepreneurial network as key assets, adding that digital transformation was central to reopening the country for business.

He said Lebanon was also in talks to join the DCO as a member state. In parallel, he said discussions were ongoing with major technology companies.

Lebanon has already signed agreements with Microsoft and Oracle to support start-ups and expand digital and artificial intelligence training initiatives, which the government views as critical to economic recovery.

Despite ongoing security challenges and the need for banking and judicial reforms, Minister Shehadi said digital transformation was “not a luxury” but a national priority tied to economic resilience and security.