Curriculum Futures in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

This book examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education in the Middle East, with a particular focus on the social sciences and humanities. It addresses long standing challenges of curricular stagnation and uncertainty by exploring how AI driven change intersects with evolving forms of knowledge, teaching, and academic work. The book argues that universities need to rethink how knowledge is taught and organized rather than viewing AI as a technical solution alone. As STEM fields gain importance, the social sciences and humanities face the risk of losing relevance. This book shows how they can instead use innovation to strengthen their intellectual and public role. The book presents approaches to curriculum reform that balance global developments with local needs. Drawing on examples from Europe and Asia while grounding the discussion in the historical, cultural, and political contexts of the Middle East, it highlights the importance of critical thinking, interdisciplinary work, and cultural understanding. It examines the development of university curricula, the impact of AI on academic work, new teaching approaches such as digital humanities, and the influence of governance and academic freedom. Case examples from the Gulf, the Levant, North Africa, Iran, and Türkiye illustrate current challenges and possibilities.This book is intended for researchers and advanced students in Middle Eastern studies, education, and higher education policy, as well as policymakers and institutional leaders concerned with the future of the social sciences and humanities in an AI driven world.