Harnessing AI: Why asking the right questions is key to success

 As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes industries and societies worldwide, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is emerging as an unexpected leader in this technological transformation. With governments and businesses in the region proactively embracing AI, a profound shift is underway – one that could propel the Middle East to the forefront of the global AI landscape.

At the heart of this revolution lies a striking cultural mindset: a fundamental curiosity and openness to exploring the boundless possibilities of AI.

Research by Oliver Wyman reveals that a remarkable 74 per cent of people in the UAE use AI at least once a week, far surpassing the global average of 55 per cent and second only to India (83 per cent). This statistic is not merely a number; it reflects a deep-rooted willingness to experiment, learn, and adapt – qualities essential for harnessing AI’s transformative potential.

AI in action

Governments in the region have recognized this unique opportunity and are taking decisive action. In Saudi Arabia, the establishment of the Saudi Data and AI Authority underscores the kingdom’s commitment to driving progress in data and AI. Meanwhile, the UAE recently approved the launch of an integrated government regulatory intelligence ecosystem.

The plan is to connect all laws with judicial rulings, executive procedures, and public services, tracking their impact on the population and economy using large-scale data, and suggesting updates to legislation. The system will also be linked to leading global research centers to follow the best international policies and legislative practices.

Mindful of the need to ensure a grassroots approach, the Department of Education in Abu Dhabi has launched a Generative AI and Prompt Engineering Bootcamp for teenagers, offered free of charge during the summer period. This initiative equips young minds with essential skills for an AI-driven future, laying the foundation for a generation of innovators and pioneers.

Private enterprises in the region are also at the forefront of AI integration. Telecoms provider E& has already integrated more than 400 AI use cases and 160 machine learning models across its operations, ensuring they translate into tangible efficiency and productivity gains. Signify, a global leader in lighting, is also paving the way in this regard. At a recent event in Riyadh, I witnessed its HR team outline a systematic AI training program schedule that also explores the philosophical underpinnings of why it should be used and how it can seamlessly integrate with human roles.

This emphasis on employee engagement and addressing concerns about job impacts is crucial for fostering a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to experiment with AI without fear. It’s a recognition that true transformation requires more than just technology; it demands a cultural shift that embraces continuous learning and adaptation.

Another inspiring example comes from DAMAC Properties, which is using AI avatars to train and coach sales employees, simulating client interactions and providing feedback on specific development areas. This innovative approach demonstrates how AI can elevate the traditional role of the trainer, enabling much more personalized sessions that enhance overall performance.

These examples show how AI usage must extend beyond experimentation and towards a fundamental shift in mindset. This involves a willingness to redesign work processes and embrace human-machine collaboration.

Read: UAE among top emerging economies in AI readiness: report

The big question

Organisations and governments will typically pass through several maturity levels on this journey. This starts with individual benefits where productivity gains are minimal due to nascent tool usage. The next level involves wide-scale adoption, where practices are restructured to integrate AI more fully.

The final stage represents mature practices, where work processes are completely transformed around the benefits of AI. This will enable successful human-machine teaming that enhances overall efficiency and effectiveness across sectors. Achieving this level of maturity requires a sustained commitment to exploring the art of the possible and redesigning work.

This task is not without its challenges, and organisations must continually ask – and answer – this simple question: why are we doing this?  Deploying AI tools across an entire operation requires investment, education and will fundamentally change operations.  Without a clear ‘why?’ that can be a frustrating challenge. But the upside is considerable, with estimated productivity gains of 30 per cent or more. That is a powerful motivator.

As the region continues to lead the way in AI adoption, it’s essential to cultivate a culture of curiosity and innovation to leverage these gains. And it must do so while ensuring that technological advancements align with cultural values and societal needs.

By fostering environments that encourage continuous learning, and celebrating champions, we can accelerate AI adoption across the region. Harness this transformative power can drive economic growth and improve societal outcomes on a large scale, forming a powerful virtuous circle.

For individuals, the call to action is equally clear: embrace AI as a sparring partner and coach, and discover the myriad use cases that can elevate your personal and professional growth.

We must all act now because the AI revolution is upon us, and it will have profound consequences. However, this region can lead the charge, redefining what’s possible and inspiring a global paradigm shift in how we live, work, and thrive in an AI-driven world.

The writer is the lead at Regional Transformation Centre of Excellence Lead, IMEA, Mercer.