Google Inc said on Tuesday that its Middle East and North Africa marketing head is missing in Egypt.

The world's No.1 Internet search company said that Wael Ghonim had not been seen since late Thursday in central Cairo, which has been wracked by anti-government protests.

The safety of our employees is very important to Google, so if anyone has any information please call the following UK number: +44 20 7031 3008, Google said in a statement.

A person familiar with the matter told Reuters that Ghonim is based in Dubai and had traveled to Cairo for personal reasons.

Google has temporarily closed its office in Cairo to ensure the general safety of its employees, the person said.

At least 140 people have died since demonstrations against the 30-year rule of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak began last Tuesday, most in clashes between protesters and police.

On Monday, the Egyptian army said it would not take action against demonstrators.

(Reporting by Alexei Oreskovic; Editing by Doina Chiacu)

Artificial intelligence Google Egypt