Intelligent CIO Middle East Issue 88 | Page 42

FEATURE : AI the GDP of the Middle East by 2030 , with the UAE leading with an estimated 13.6 % contribution to GDP , followed by 12.4 % in Saudi Arabia , and 8.2 % in the GCC .
He said AI is expected to be a crucial element in aiding these countries ’ transitions into post-oil economies , and they have taken numerous initiatives towards their AI ambitions . “ Some of these examples include , and are not limited to , the UAE and Saudi Arabia setting out national strategies for AI to become

CIOS MUST EMBRACE AN AI-FIRST STRATEGY AND INVEST IN THE RESOURCES , INFRASTRUCTURE , AND TALENT NEEDED FOR TOMORROW .

leading global AI players , as well as Bahrain boosting research and development in AI through establishing the Nasser Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Centre .
Tarek Saliba , Presales Senior Manager , UAE , Dell Technologies
analysing new trends will allow CIOs to prepare for and grasp new opportunities . Instead of transforming by adopting multiple technologies , focusing on changes that align with business priorities will result in a real competitive advantage . Having customer-centric goals is also essential and can increase the value of the products or services offered , enabling resiliency and business continuity ,” he said .
“ These countries are increasingly suited to become leading regional hubs for AI . With continued investments from major international technology companies and a national focus on building AI capabilities , they hold the potential to become game changers in the region ,” he said .
Given the momentum around AI adoption across MEA , what are some of the pitfalls CIOs and IT teams should avoid when deploying AI technologies in their enterprise environment ?
Tarek Saliba , Presales Senior Manager , UAE , Dell Technologies , said IT teams need to be flexible and agile , with a quick ability to understand and execute next-generation technologies . Saliba said staying one step ahead and seizing these opportunities will prevent organisations from falling behind .
“ CIOs should also nurture strong relationships with C-suite executives for swift coordination and keeping up with the demands of the digital age .
“ Moreover , incorporating AI tools throughout operations is serving to transform products and services in unprecedented ways . Understanding and
Vishal Soni , Technical Product Manager , Alteryx
Vishal Soni , Technical Product Manager , Alteryx , said deploying AI tools – or any IT solution – without consideration for change management can result in failed adoption and wasted budget .
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