Google Launches Gemini AI Search Across MENA
Google has officially rolled out its Gemini AI search capabilities across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, including the UAE. Powered by a custom version of the Gemini 2.5 "thinking model," the new AI-powered Search Mode is designed to handle complex, multi-layered queries with enhanced reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Multimodal Interaction and Advanced Reasoning
The new feature is available to both Android and iOS users, initially supporting English-language interactions. Unlike traditional search methods, this AI mode offers multimodal capabilities, allowing users to interact through several different methods:
- Typing: Standard text-based queries.
- Voice: Natural language spoken commands.
- Images: Uploading visual data to get specific information.
A key technical driver behind this expansion is the "query fan-out" technique. This process decomposes complex, exploratory questions into smaller subtopics, performing simultaneous searches to provide more diverse and relevant results. This is particularly useful for tasks such as comparing products, planning intricate travel itineraries, or seeking step-by-step guidance.
Enhanced Support for Expatriates
The rollout is expected to provide significant utility to the diverse expatriate populations living in the MENA region. By handling more sophisticated queries, the tool can offer improved access to critical information regarding visas, employment, and travel logistics.
Early data indicates that users are already changing their search habits, submitting queries that are two to three times longer than those used in traditional search engines to get more comprehensive and detailed answers.
Updates to AI Overviews and Link Visibility
As part of ongoing developments announced around October 15, 2026, Google has introduced further enhancements to AI Overviews and AI Mode. These updates focus on increasing transparency and content accessibility by:
- Placing inline links more prominently within AI-generated responses.
- Integrating publisher profiles to build trust.
- Expanding timely news carousels to more locations and languages.
These advancements come as the broader industry observes a shift in the search landscape, including increased ranking volatility and the evolution of Google's AI agent ecosystem, such as the transition of "Gems" into new skill-based functionalities.