We’re in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is rapidly transforming workplaces and the workforce by automating repetitive tasks, analysing vast datasets, and pushing human capabilities to achieve higher performance and potential. The Middle East, which is significantly adopting AI, observes both optimism and concern among workers. A report by PwC shows that 46 per cent of respondents in the region believe AI can greatly improve productivity, surpassing the global average of 31 per cent. This enthusiasm is particularly strong in countries like Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Nader Paslar, General Manager at CODE81, emphasised AI's growing role in everyday tasks, as he encouraged the use of AI tools to enhance efficiency. However, while many workers appreciate AI's benefits, others worry about job displacement and the potential loss of human interaction. PwC's report indicates that 21 per cent of respondents fear AI could negatively affect their work, and 19 per cent are concerned about job security.

In creative sectors, some employees are apprehensive about AI's impact on their roles and how using AI for work is perceived by colleagues and leadership team. Emmanuel Durou, Technology, Media & Telecommunications leader at Deloitte Middle East, recommends organisations to, "Communicate openly about the changes and involve employees in the transition towards AI by training and upskilling"

How are the workers in the Middle East region seeing AI technologies? 

Workers in the Middle East view AI technologies positively, with high expectations for the future. According to the Dell Technologies Innovation Catalysts Study, 82 per cent of the participating employees from various organisations across the region believe in a significant human-machine partnership within five years. 

The study highlights that 79 per cent of workers from the Middle East think machines will augment human capabilities rather than replace them, leading to unprecedented productivity. However, 73 per cent express concerns about data and intellectual property security when using generative AI tools, fearing third-party access.

Additionally, 83 per cent of Middle East workers see AI as crucial for security, enhancing the ability to detect unauthorised activities. 

Latest reports suggest that the Middle East workforce ensures their work does not become entirely dependent on AI. They maintain their style and creativity while using AI for automating redundant work.

Despite significant AI use in the workplace, many workers believe their employer would not approve of using Generative AI for work purposes. The reason involves substantial risks for organisations, including data privacy and copyrights. Yet, workers in the Middle East use AI tools for daily tasks but choose not to report this usage to their employers. A common example is the rapid adoption of generative AI conversational models to assist in drafting various types of content.

How do Middle Eastern workers perceive upskilling in AI tech?

AI is driving the need for skill adaptation among Middle Eastern workers. Another report by PwC highlights how rapid technological advancements and the climate crisis are creating a strong demand for new skills. Over 60 per cent of respondents believe that technology and GenAI will impact their jobs within the next three years.

Trust in leadership is high, with 80 per cent expressing confidence in their leaders' ability to deliver on promises, compared to 68 per cent globally. Opportunities to learn new skills are crucial for retention, with 67 per cent citing this as a reason to stay with their current employer. Randa Bahsoun, a PwC leader, underlined the importance of upskilling programmes for retaining talent saying, "Investing in employee training and technological platforms is imperative to mitigate pressures and retain the brightest talent."

AI and machine learning tools are increasingly used, with 81 per cent of employees utilising them in the past year, compared to 61 per cent globally. However, nearly half see risks such as bias (64 per cent) and misinformation (56 per cent).

A majority (61 per cent) acknowledge the need for new tools and technologies to excel in their jobs. Specialised skills are becoming more important, with those possessing them reporting significantly higher job satisfaction (80 per cent versus 43 per cent without).

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What are the positive aspects of having AI in the workplace?

Businesses in the Middle East region use AI to boost productivity, as the technology manages repetitive tasks efficiently, allowing employees to focus on creative solutions, complex problem-solving, and impactful work.

A key example is AI-powered chatbots, which are essential for teams that interact daily with customers and rely on fast, accurate, and timely support.

Also, running a competitive business requires data. Hiring skilled data scientists to analyse this data is challenging, as they are rare in the current market. However, AI can help companies interpret their data and gain valuable insights without needing a data scientist. A report revealed that 77 per cent of organisational leaders trust AI to disseminate information and results accurately.

Data security breaches are a significant concern, often occurring without the company's knowledge. AI can help address this issue. According to a Chrome report, 53 per cent of frontline workers use messaging apps like Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp for work-related reasons, but 68 per cent would stop if provided with approved internal communication tools.

What is leadership's take on AI for employees?

A report from the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) reveals a gap in perceptions of AI between employees and business leaders. While 68% of leaders believe their organisation has a sufficient responsible AI program, only 29 per cent of frontline employees agree. Additionally, 62 per cent of business leaders are optimistic about AI, compared to 42 per cent of frontline employees. 

Furthermore, 44 per cent of leaders have received training to enhance their skills, whereas only 14 per cent of frontline employees have had similar training. And are they pushing employees to learn these new skills for an AI-driven future? Mohammed Amin, Senior Vice President of Dell Technologies, explained "Organisations seeking to stand out in today's disruptive market must pivot from innovation being a side project to it being deeply embedded into their corporate identity. At Dell, we believe tangible, positive change is achievable through innovation and action. By combining GenAI and other transformative innovations, businesses can augment their capabilities and raise their productivity levels to new heights."

Middle Eastern workers believe that AI is transforming the region's workplace by enhancing productivity and efficiency. They view AI positively and see it as a tool to augment human capabilities. However, they also express concerns about job security and data privacy. In response, regional leadership emphasises the importance of upskilling to address these challenges.