The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is testing the Gulf's ambitions to become a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI). Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar had been positioning themselves to attract AI investments by leveraging their abundant energy resources and strategic locations. However, the war has raised concerns regarding energy security, infrastructure resilience, and investor confidence. Oil prices have surged, with Brent crude rising from approximately $72 to nearly $120 per barrel, complicating the economic landscape. Major companies involved in AI infrastructure, such as Amazon and Microsoft, are reassessing their investments, with some decisions being paused or delayed due to heightened geopolitical risks. Despite these challenges, regional players like G42 and HUMAIN maintain a bullish outlook, asserting their commitment to AI development. They emphasize the necessity for robust infrastructure capable of withstanding current geopolitical tensions. Experts suggest that future projects will be more expensive and take longer to complete due to the need for enhanced security measures. The Gulf's ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity will be crucial for its long-term aspirations in the AI sector.