Ai is involved with more than 42% of UAE based companies

• AI is present in 42 percent of businesses in the UAE.
• 75 percent of MEA consumers are supplementing their in-store experiences with mobile applications
• The growing acceptance of AI in business operations and the retail sector, not only in the UAE but also in the wider Middle East

According to the IBM Global AI Adoption Index 2023, 42 percent of businesses in the UAE have already incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) in their day-to-day operations.

This indicates the country’s continuous efforts towards technological advancement and digital transformation.

IBM conducted two studies that revealed the growing acceptance of AI in business operations and the retail sector, not only in the UAE but also in the wider Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.

The first study, the 2023 Global AI Adoption Index by Morning Consult, provides insights from companies in the UAE. The second study, ‘Revolutionize retail with AI everywhere: Customers won’t wait’, focuses on the retail sector.

These studies demonstrate the transformative effect of AI on reshaping business strategies, enhancing operational efficiency, and revolutionizing the retail landscape to meet evolving consumer expectations.

The IBM Global AI Adoption Index 2023 surveyed over 8,500 IT professionals, including some from the UAE. The study shows a rapid adoption and integration of AI into different business sectors, with 65 percent of IT professionals in the UAE reporting an increase in AI adoption over the past two years.

This has resulted in reshaping the way businesses operate, and increased efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness in the UAE market.

With 42 percent of companies already using Artificial intelligence, the UAE is emerging as a frontrunner in technological advancement in the region.

The study also reveals that 34 percent of companies in the UAE have a comprehensive AI strategy, while an additional 30 percent are in the process of developing one.

The reasons for Artificial intelligence adoption in the UAE include the increasing integration of AI in standard business applications, cost reduction, and automation of essential processes.

In addition to the UAE findings, IBM’s retail and AI research highlights consumer preferences and demands in the MEA region. Despite a preference for physical stores, only three percent of MEA consumers are satisfied with the in-store experience.

However, 75 percent of MEA consumers are supplementing their in-store experiences with mobile applications, indicating a shift towards a digitally integrated shopping experience.

It has immense potential to enhance the shopping journey, with nine out of every ten consumers expressing interest in AI applications for shopping.

Meanwhile, 75 percent of MEA respondents are eager for AI applications, and 67 percent for Artificial intelligence enhancements like virtual assistants.

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