Image: Supplied
Chinese artificial intelligence firm iFLYTEK has reinforced its Middle East ambitions following its showcase at GITEX GLOBAL 2025 in Dubai, where it unveiled a comprehensive multi-scenario AI ecosystem. The launch, led by chairman and CEO Dr Liu Qingfeng and VP Vincent Zhan, highlighted innovations including the iFLYTEK AINOTE 2, the world’s thinnest E-ink tablet, and AI Translation Earbuds capable of real-time Arabic, English, and Chinese translation.
The event demonstrated iFLYTEK’s commitment to localised AI solutions for individuals, enterprises, and governments. Products such as the Spark WallEX, which transforms physical spaces into interactive smart environments, and the All-in-One AI Solution, built for high-security sectors including government and finance, showcased practical applications of AI across the region.
Founded in 1999, iFLYTEK specialises in speech recognition, natural language processing, and cognitive intelligence. The company operates China’s only National Key Laboratory of Cognitive Intelligence and the National Engineering Research Center for Speech and Language Information Processing, contributing to over 200 AI-related standards globally.
The company’s Dubai office, established last year, is being upgraded to serve as its MENA headquarters, with plans for a local R&D centre and partnerships with universities and enterprises to tailor AI solutions for regional languages, dialects, and business needs.
Revenues in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have tripled year-on-year, while the AINOTE series quickly ranked No 2 in regional E-ink device sales.
Below, Vincent Zhan shares insights on iFLYTEK’s GCC strategy, product portfolio, and regional opportunities:
Tell us about iFLYTEK foray into the GCC market.
Last year, we took our first step into the GCC, opening our Dubai office and attending GITEX GLOBAL or the first time. The market is growing fast, and governments have clear long-term visions. Our revenue in the GCC tripled compared to the previous year, which encouraged us to expand further. This year, our GITEX booth area was much larger than last year, and we plan to double it next year. We’re also upgrading our Dubai office to serve as the MENA headquarters, with plans for a research center and partnerships with local universities and businesses.
Which sectors are showing the most interest in your AI products?
We see demand from both governments and enterprises. Our All-in-One AI solution allows organisations to build private, customisable AI systems. Unlike public AI models, our platform keeps data private and tailored to each client’s needs. We also offer AI training platforms, so clients can modify configurations for their business purposes.
This solution is already in use by media companies and government entities across the region and Southeast Asia.
What gives iFLYTEK an edge in the market?
Three main factors. First, history — we’ve focused on AI for 26 years, starting with speech recognition and natural language understanding. Second, R&D — we invest 20 per cent of revenue into research, higher than many global tech firms. Third, localisation — we are establishing a local R&D center to adapt our AI to Arabic dialects and regional needs, ensuring solutions truly meet local requirements.
What challenges have you faced in the GCC?
Experience was initially a hurdle; we had to learn local norms, regulations, and culture. Talent acquisition was also a challenge, but we now have a strong mix of local and Chinese experts. Supply chains and regulatory compliance are ongoing considerations, but by respecting and adapting to local frameworks, these challenges are manageable. Lastly, product localisation was key — we realised that solutions designed solely for China don’t always translate to the Middle East market.
Which markets in the GCC are priorities, and where do you see expansion next?
The UAE and Saudi Arabia are our primary markets, followed by Qatar. Dubai serves as our gateway to the wider GCC and North Africa. Beyond the GCC, we’re also active in Southeast Asia, with offices in Singapore, and have growing operations in East Asia, particularly Japan and Korea.
What are your key product categories?
Three main areas: AI infrastructure for private AI solutions, translation devices for conferences and office use, and AI solutions such as virtual humans for different scenarios. Virtual humans are particularly popular in the Middle East for enterprise and customer interaction applications.
Where can consumers access iFLYTEK products?
Through online platforms like Amazon and Shopee, as well as select retailers, including a shop in Dubai Mall. We don’t yet have standalone stores, but our retail footprint is expanding as our product range grows.
What’s next for iFLYTEK in 2026?
Our priorities are expanding the All-in-One AI solutions across the GCC and scaling the Translation Device Matrix. Recent product launches for retail partners will help us deliver more devices to local consumers.
Our long-term goal is to make iFLYTEK a bridge between AI innovation and region-specific applications, creating a smart, connected ecosystem across the Middle East.
