The Algorithmic State’s Eye: artificial intelligence, urban surveillance, and the reshaping of citizen–state relations in Egypt

The rapid global expansion of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered urban surveillance is fundamentally reshaping citizen–state relations worldwide. This dynamic is particularly critical in non-Western contexts like Egypt, where technological adoption intersects with existing governance challenges. Despite growing scholarly attention, a notable empirical gap exists in understanding Egyptian citizens’ lived perceptions of these systems—specifically concerning trust, transparency, accountability, security/privacy trade-offs, and impacts on daily life and freedom. To address this, the study utilized a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, integrating quantitative survey data (N = 400) with qualitative insights (N = 25), and from these data, develops the 'Algorithmic State's Eye' concept to frame these lived experiences. Integrated findings reveal high awareness of surveillance proliferation coupled with profound ambiguity regarding its mechanisms. Crucially, regression analysis reveals that a profound institutional trust crisis—rooted in perceived opacity—is the single most powerful predictor of tangible behavioral impacts. Consequently, surveillance is widely viewed as enhancing state control, fostering 'cautious citizenship' and self-censorship, with these effects being most pronounced among younger, more aware individuals. This study offers vital empirical insights into the sociopolitical risks of unaccountable AI surveillance in a non-Western context, underscoring the tangible chilling effects and erosion of trust. The findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced transparency, robust regulatory frameworks, and further context-sensitive research on AI governance in Egypt.