CRN Asia · 30 Sep, 06:21 · Technology briefing

“The OpenAI badge is only a start”, says KnackLabs CEO as Indian AI firm expands into UAE, Middle East

KnackLabs, an Indian artificial intelligence company, is expanding its operations into the United Arab Emirates and the wider Middle East region.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

KnackLabs, an Indian artificial intelligence company, is expanding its operations into the United Arab Emirates and the wider Middle East region. The firm’s CEO, speaking to CRN Asia, emphasised that achieving OpenAI certification represents merely an initial step in their growth trajectory. This expansion signals a strategic push to establish a stronger footprint in the Gulf market, leveraging their existing technical credentials to capture new business opportunities. The move highlights the increasing demand for localised AI solutions and the growing importance of regional partnerships in the technology sector.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This expansion signals a surge in demand for AI specialists who understand cross-cultural business dynamics and Middle Eastern regulatory frameworks. Your technical skills alone are insufficient; you must now demonstrate strategic adaptability. Professionals in software development, data science, and technical sales should prioritise upskilling in regional market analysis and compliance. Smart practitioners will immediately research UAE-specific AI governance laws and enhance their cross-cultural communication abilities. Consider obtaining certifications in AI strategy to bridge the gap between technical execution and business value. Focus on building a portfolio that showcases scalable, locally relevant solutions. Networking with regional tech hubs will accelerate your career trajectory in this rapidly evolving landscape.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

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