1001 AI, founded by Bilal Abu-Ghazaleh, has recently raised $9 million in seed funding to develop AI solutions aimed at improving operational efficiencies in critical industries across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The funding round was led by CIV, General Catalyst, and Lux Capital, with participation from various angel investors. The startup aims to tackle inefficiencies in sectors such as aviation, logistics, and oil and gas, where Abu-Ghazaleh estimates over $10 billion in inefficiencies exist in the Gulf region alone. The company plans to launch its first product by the end of the year, focusing on decision-making AI that automates operational workflows. This approach is expected to significantly enhance efficiency in high-stakes environments, such as airports and construction sites, where delays and budget overruns are common. With the MENA region rapidly adopting AI technologies, 1001 AI is positioned to capitalize on this trend by providing solutions that address real-world operational challenges.