According to a recent survey, UAE enterprises are fully prepared to adopt generative AI technology. The study, which surveyed over 500 business leaders in the UAE, found that an impressive 83 per cent of companies are ready to integrate generative AI into their operations.
The data also revealed that 82 per cent of the businesses surveyed have already implemented generative AI in their current offerings. Of those, 51 per cent reported extensive implementation across all their functions.
The study aimed to explore perceptions of generative AI and its potential impact on businesses and the workforce. Results showed that a significant 85 per cent of business leaders believe that generative AI will reshape their customer offerings or business operations within the next three years, with 91 per cent considering it crucial for driving business growth.
The UAE’s commitment to artificial intelligence is evident in the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, which positions the country as a global AI hub. The strategy focuses on attracting talent for future job roles, supporting research and innovation hubs, developing robust infrastructure and data ecosystems, and establishing a well-balanced legislative environment.
While UAE business leaders recognize the potential benefits of implementing generative AI to improve their enterprises, they also expressed concerns about job displacement (55 per cent), data privacy and security (49 per cent), and the lack of transparency in decision-making (43 per cent) as the top risks associated with adopting AI in operational functions.
The study further highlighted that 50 per cent of business leaders believe generative AI will necessitate a shift in the required skills for the workforce. Interestingly, 87 per cent of respondents expressed the desire for new employees to possess the necessary AI skills.
To address the skills gap, two in three surveyed companies plan to use online training to upskill their employees and prepare them for the integration of AI technology.
Kais Zribi, General Manager for the Middle East and Africa at Coursera, said: “The remarkable implementation of generative AI and UAE companies’ commitment to embracing this transformative technology highlight the nation’s successful investment in shaping the future.”
“This strategic move aligns with ongoing digital transformation efforts, unlocking unprecedented efficiency and productivity for the workforce.”
“Data from our study emphasises the importance of continuous learning for both employees and job seekers, empowering them to proactively adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the modern workplace.”
PwC predicts a substantial growth in the AI market across the Middle East in the coming years.
According to projections, AI will contribute nearly 14 percent of the UAE’s national GDP by 2030. Additionally, experts anticipate that the Middle East region will capture approximately 2 percent of the global benefits of AI in the same year, resulting in an impressive $320 billion.
