ChatGPT vs DeepSeek: How the rival AI chatbots compare on Middle Eastern questions

OpenAI’s ChatGPT has been the dominant artificial intelligence platform since its launch in late 2022. People have used it for everything from organising their schedules and making travel plans to asking it to come up with cooking recipes or story ideas.

But a new AI platform is unsettling ChatGPT, China’s DeepSeek. The new generative AI model matches, and sometimes outdoes, its more established rival despite reportedly only costing around $6 million to build and operate, much less than ChatGPT’s costs.

But how do the two platforms differ when it comes to questions about the Middle East? Here, The National asks easy and hard questions to see what each has to say.

How can we resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict?

ChatGPT: Resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict requires a two-state solution with mutual recognition, addressing key issues like borders, refugees and Jerusalem. Both parties must engage in peaceful dialogue, ensuring security, human rights and equality. International support through diplomacy and mediation is essential for long-term peace and coexistence.

DeepSeek: Resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict requires mutual recognition, a two-state solution, ending violence, addressing core issues (borders, Jerusalem, refugees) and international mediation. Trust-building, economic cooperation and inclusive dialogue are essential. Both sides must prioritise peace over historical grievances, with global support ensuring fairness and sustainability.

Observation: The two platforms broadly give similar answers, despite some differences in the language and style. It’s clear that both are pulling from the same sources but are presenting the answer in a slightly different manner.

What can we do to best help the people of Gaza?

ChatGPT: To help the people of Gaza, we can donate to reputable humanitarian organisations providing food, medical care and essential supplies. Supporting advocacy for peace, human rights and political solutions is vital. Raising awareness and urging governments to prioritise diplomatic efforts can also contribute to long-term stability and aid.

DeepSeek: To best help the people of Gaza, provide urgent humanitarian aid (food, water, medical supplies), support NGOs delivering on-the-ground assistance, advocate for a ceasefire and diplomatic solutions, raise awareness about their plight and push for long-term reconstruction and economic development to ensure stability and improve living conditions.

Observation: Like the first question, both give the same answers, just delivered differently. But both offer good suggestions for a pertinent question that many will be asking today.

Who is the most significant Arab artist, living or dead?

ChatGPT: Mahmoud Said, often called the "father of modern Egyptian art", is one of the most significant Arab artists. His work combined traditional Egyptian themes with modernist techniques, influencing generations of artists. His legacy continues to shape contemporary Arab art, especially through his use of symbolism and abstraction.

DeepSeek: Umm Kulthum, the "Star of the East", is the most significant Arab artist. Her powerful voice and emotive performances transcended borders, symbolising Arab unity and cultural pride. Decades after her death in 1975, her music remains iconic, influencing generations and solidifying her legacy as a timeless cultural icon.

Observation: While both chose Egyptian artists, their answers were very different. ChatGPT chose a niche answer in Mahmoud Said, a modern art painter, while DeepSeek chose Umm Kulthum, arguably the most obvious answer to the question. Both backed their choices with solid reasoning.

Where is the best place to get a shawarma in Abu Dhabi?

ChatGPT: Al Ijaza Cafeteria is a top choice for delicious shawarma in Abu Dhabi, known for its tender meat and flavourful garlic sauce. Shawarma King also stands out for its tasty, juicy shawarma with a variety of fillings. Both are beloved for their authentic, satisfying shawarma experience.

DeepSeek: For the best shawarma in Abu Dhabi, head to Al Farah Restaurant or Al Ibrahimi Restaurant. Both are renowned for their flavourful, freshly grilled shawarmas, generous portions and authentic taste. Locals and visitors alike praise their quality and consistency, making them top choices in the city.

Observation: ChatGPT falls at the first hurdle, as Al Ijaza Cafeteria is a popular affordable eatery in Dubai, not Abu Dhabi, and the same applies to its second suggestion, Shawarma King. DeepSeek gave great answers though, as both of its suggestions are popular shawarma spots in Abu Dhabi.

Which Arab actor should play Spider-Man?

ChatGPT: Rami Malek, an Egyptian-American actor, would be an excellent choice to play Spider-Man. His talent, charm and youthful appearance fit Peter Parker's character well. Malek’s ability to portray complex roles, combined with his growing international fame, would bring a unique depth to the iconic superhero.

DeepSeek: Omar Borkan Al Gala, a UAE-born actor and model, would be a compelling choice for an Arab Spider-Man. Known for his charisma and global appeal, he embodies the youthful energy and relatability of Peter Parker, while representing Arab talent in a globally iconic role.

Observation: Completely different answers from each platform here, as one chooses an Oscar-winning actor while the other chooses someone who is primarily a model. While ChatGPT’s choice does make sense, it fails to suggest an actor who can speak Arabic fluently. DeepSeek’s choice is closer to what was asked, but of the hundreds of Arab actors, it chose someone who isn’t known for his acting chops. It does make a mistake, however, as Al Gala was born in Baghdad and raised in Dubai.

What is the best tourist destination in Saudi Arabia for children?

ChatGPT: AlUla is an excellent tourist destination for children, offering adventure and history with its stunning rock formations, ancient tombs and family-friendly activities like hiking and camel rides. Another great option is King Abdulaziz Historical Centre in Riyadh, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and learn about Saudi heritage.

DeepSeek: The best tourist destination in Saudi Arabia for children is Al Shallal Theme Park in Jeddah. It offers thrilling rides, a skating rink, arcade games and a large Ferris wheel. Its family-friendly atmosphere, diverse attractions and beautiful lighting make it a perfect spot for kids to enjoy and explore.

Observation: ChatGPT’s answer skews more towards a culturally enriching experience, while DeepSeek chooses a safe option in a theme park. Both are good choices nonetheless and deciding which made the better choice depends wholly on the family.

Who is more influential, Nancy Ajram or Amr Diab?

ChatGPT: Amr Diab is generally considered more influential due to his pioneering role in modern Arabic pop music. His long career and global reach helped shape the genre. While Nancy Ajram is incredibly popular and influential, especially among younger audiences, Diab's impact on Arabic music has been broader and longer-lasting.

DeepSeek: Amr Diab is more influential, often called the "father of Mediterranean music". With a career spanning decades, he revolutionised Arabic pop, blending traditional and modern styles. Nancy Ajram, while hugely popular, particularly in the Levant, doesn't match Diab's broader regional impact and pioneering contributions to the music industry.

Observation: The two have similar answers again. While they use different words to say it, they both make the same point in choosing Amr Diab while giving due respect to Nancy Ajram.