Rami Mourtada Urges Saudi Companies to Embrace AI

Saudi Arabia's business landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into operations. The country has been hosting key technology events like LEAP, prompting regional businesses to prioritize upskilling in AI-related functions to drive growth. Rami Mourtada, a partner at Boston Consulting Group, emphasized the urgency for Saudi companies to establish their AI strategies promptly to adapt to this evolving landscape.

A recent report by Oliver Wyman highlighted the substantial investments made by Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East region in national AI strategies, with positive outcomes. However, there remains a disconnect between employers and employees regarding AI adoption. Ana Kreacic, from Oliver Wyman, stressed the importance of bridging this gap to ensure a smooth transition.

The study revealed that while 57% of surveyed employees in Saudi Arabia found the AI training provided by their companies inadequate, 40% expressed the need for peer-to-peer mentorship programs to navigate the changes effectively. Kreacic emphasized the significance of continuous communication, clear guidelines, and ongoing skill-building to alleviate employees' anxieties.

Furthermore, the report underscored the concerns among workers, particularly the younger generation, about AI's impact on job security. To address these fears, businesses must adopt a hybrid approach where humans oversee AI-transformed processes, ensuring minimal bias or errors.

In conclusion, fostering a shared mission around AI adoption, prioritizing ongoing training, and addressing job security concerns are crucial steps for businesses in Saudi Arabia to embrace AI effectively and drive sustainable growth in the evolving digital landscape.