The UAE is solidifying its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, with both consumers and businesses showing unprecedented levels of engagement with this transformative technology.
In the latest episode of AB Majlis, Rima Semaan, Data and AI Lead at Microsoft UAE, offered exclusive insights into the burgeoning AI landscape in the UAE, highlighting the nation’s forward-thinking approach and the significant impact AI is having across various sectors.
“The UAE is a fantastic example of how visionary leadership combined with a laser focus on the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies acts as a spearhead to success,” Semaan stated,” Semaan said.
UAE leading the charge in AI awareness and usage
According to recent data shared by Semaan, the UAE is outpacing global averages when it comes to AI awareness and usage. A study conducted by BCG revealed that 91 percent of UAE consumers are aware of generative AI, with 34 percent actively using these applications in their daily lives.
This stands in stark contrast to global figures, where 80 percent of consumers are aware of AI, but only 25 percent are engaging with it.
The enthusiasm for AI extends into the workplace, where 67 percent of UAE employees have expressed excitement about the potential of AI to enhance their work environment.
AI’s impact on the job market
The rapid integration of AI into various industries is also driving significant changes in the job market. Semaan revealed that an upcoming report on the impact of generative AI in the UAE indicates a rising demand for new roles, including Gen AI engineers, Gen AI strategy analysts, ethical AI analysts, and prompt engineers.
These emerging roles are indicative of the broader shifts occurring as AI technology continues to evolve and integrate into business operations.
Several leading organisations in the UAE’s public and private sectors are already leveraging Microsoft’s comprehensive portfolio, of AI solutions to drive innovation and improve efficiency, according to Semaan. Notable examples include:
- International Holding Company (IHC): In collaboration with G42 and Microsoft, IHC has developed an AI-powered board member designed to enhance strategic thinking and decision-making at the highest levels of corporate governance.
- Department of Health: The Department has introduced an AI patient assistant that provides instant access to unified medical records, streamlining healthcare services and improving patient outcomes.
- Ministry of Education: Partnering with ASI, the Ministry has developed an AI tutor that assists students with their homework and studies, providing personalised educational support.
She also highlighted several early AI adopters in the UAE, including ADNOC, Emirates NBD and more.
Commitment to ethical AI
As AI technology continues to proliferate, concerns around safety, privacy, and security remain at the forefront. Microsoft has made ethical AI development and deployment a top priority, ensuring that AI technologies are used responsibly and for the benefit of all.
“We have a robust approach to ensuring AI is developed and used responsibly,” Semaan emphasised, highlighting the company’s ongoing efforts to maintain the highest standards of safety and ethics in AI.
Looking ahead, Microsoft is actively working to prepare the current and future workforce for the challenges and opportunities of an AI-powered world. The company’s initiatives aim to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
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