AI in Iran: Challenges and Opportunities

AI entered the scientific field in the 1950s, when Alan Turing, a well-known mathematician and computer science scientist, established concepts for assessing smart behavior by presenting the Turing Test.

This branch of computer science has moved toward making smart systems and analyzing data and has achieved capabilities such as learning, solving complicated problems, and decision-making.

AI standing in Iran

AI has pursued a growth and development path filled with challenges but still promising over the past few decades. Despite obstacles such as sanctions and international restrictions, Iran has made significant progress in this regard.

Iran ranks 14th in the world and 1st among Islamic countries concerning the number of scientific papers on AI.

Iran’s scientific achievements in AI

Web of Science reported that Iran has released more than 2,638 papers in the field of AI between 2013 and 2022, with the universities of Tehran, Tabriz, and the Industrial University of Amir-Kabir having the most share of producing scientific articles. The statistics reflect Iran’s strong standing in the world regarding producing knowledge in this field.

One of Iran’s biggest achievements in the field of AI and robotics is the production of the humanoid robot “Sorena.” The project, initiated by Tehran University, displays capabilities such as the ability to grab things, keep its balance, and perform simple interactions in its 4th generation.

Challenges and Opportunities

AI faces both challenges and opportunities. The most important challenges are as follows:

International sanctions that have restricted the access of Iranian researchers to resources and tools.

Lack of investment in research and development, which can slow down development in this field.

Currently, talented human resources, efforts by startups in the field of technology, and university programs are considered opportunities in this field.

The future of AI in Iran

Iran’s administration has a long-term program to help Iran rank among the top 10 countries in the field of AI by 2032. The establishment of the National AI Organization this year is one of the significant steps to achieve this goal. The organization is tasked with policy-making and creating coordination at the national level for the development of AI.

Although achieving this goal requires competition with countries such as South Korea, Germany, and Britain, Iranian talents have proved their capabilities in international competition and conferences.

How AI is used in Iran

AI is used in multiple fields in Iran, including video games, online support services, smart home appliances, and personal branding. The technology is also used in areas such as medicine, transportation, and agriculture, and has had a significant role in increasing efficiency in these fields.

Despite the existing obstacles, AI is improving in Iran. Strategic planning, increasing investments, and international support can help the field thrive even more. The promising future of AI in Iran requires constant collaboration among researchers, startups, and the administration.