Lebanon has officially established a Ministry of Technology and Artificial Intelligence, a long-awaited step but as the saying goes, "better late than never."

On September 9, the Cabinet approved a bill creating the new ministry, marking the first time a new portfolio has been established in Lebanon since 1993. The ministry is designed to keep pace with the rapidly accelerating global digital transformation and to strengthen Lebanon’s position on the digital map, while enhancing its capabilities in technology and artificial intelligence.

Minister Kamal Shehadeh emphasized in a statement that the decision is not merely an administrative adjustment but a strategic move reflecting a clear political will to invest in Lebanon’s future, build a knowledge- and technology-based economy, and drive digital transformation.

“The new ministry will not be a traditional ministry,” Shehadeh said. “It will act as an engine of creativity and innovation, a bridge between the public and private sectors, and a hub for developing national digital policies in collaboration with all ministries, educational institutions, and economic bodies. It will enable Lebanon to address many challenges with smart solutions across sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, transportation, services, and governance.”

Core Responsibilities of the Ministry

Shehadeh outlined the ministry’s key responsibilities, which include:

• Developing a national strategy to integrate digital technology and artificial intelligence across the public and private sectors, with attention to the needs of minors and people with disabilities.

• Establishing regulatory and legislative frameworks to support digital transformation and smart governance.

• Strengthening partnerships with the private sector, technology companies, and academic institutions to accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Launching a unified digital platform for public services to facilitate service delivery to citizens.

• Creating a comprehensive legislative framework to regulate digital technology and AI.

• Contributing to cybersecurity, protecting personal data, and building trust in digital systems.

• Supporting the digital economy through training programs, job creation, and technology investments.

• Ensuring alignment with international standards in technology and AI.

• Implementing clear safeguards to prevent the misuse of these technologies.

• Representing Lebanon in international organizations relevant to technology.

• Signing cooperation agreements with other countries and companies for the exchange of data and expertise.

• Participating in global initiatives on ethical and responsible technology.

• Attracting local and international investors, positioning Lebanon as a hub for future industries.

Strategic Vision for Digital Transformation

Speaking to kataeb.org website, technology and AI expert Rudy Shoushany emphasized the strategic importance of Lebanon’s new ministry, highlighting how it could transform the country’s digital future and position it as a hub for innovation. He explained the significance of the move, noting its potential to unify national efforts, attract investment, and strengthen Lebanon’s role in emerging technologies.

“In 2025, in the era of artificial intelligence and digitalization, the creation of a Ministry of Technology and Artificial Intelligence is a strategic step reflecting the state’s awareness of the importance of digital transformation and building a modern, sustainable economy. For the first time, Lebanon has a ministry distinct from the former Ministry of State for Information Technology, which was previously headed by Minister Adel Afyouni. Today, Minister Kamal Shihadeh has established a ministry that positions Lebanon in the second millennium of the digital era, supporting the digital economy we aspire to, regardless of individual ministerial strategies. This specialized ministry will put Lebanon on the digital map and signal both domestically and internationally that Lebanon is serious about attracting investments in technology and AI, enhancing its image as a regional innovation hub, and elevating its standing in technology, AI, and cybersecurity—areas that are central to this ministry," he explained. 

Shoushany also stressed that having a specialized, sovereign ministry coordinating with all stakeholders will consolidate national efforts rather than disperse initiatives. It will serve as the official reference point for shaping policies and strategies.

“This ministry will attract investment. Lebanon now has the primary and most powerful entity tasked with setting clear legislative and foundational frameworks to encourage global companies and investors to invest in the Lebanese market. Soon, we could see international giants like Amazon and Google helping to build the future alongside domestic technology investments,” he said.

Shoushany noted that despite Lebanon’s small size, its role in the technology sector is significant. The new ministry will combine forward-looking vision, technical and financial support, and Lebanon’s strong pool of young innovators.

“These strategic investments will empower the country’s youth and drive innovation. I expect Lebanon to advance in global digital standards in the coming years, moving toward a new digital economy independent of the traditional economy,” he said.