Dubai, UAE – The explosive popularity of ChatGPT and other forms of generative AI suggests that we are witnessing the start of a new order for business and society.
The new wave of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools, such as GPT-4 and DALL-E are transforming businesses In the Middle East at an unprecedented pace.
However, how do people in the workplace who have a front-row seat for the AI revolution feel about the technology sweeping across the corporate landscape? That’s what Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has sought to answer.
The company surveyed 1,126 Middle East employees, managers, and leaders who exhibited 58 percent optimism about AI’s impact on work, 60 percent job elimination, and 76 percent called for AI-specific regulations. This places the Middle East among the top three most optimistic locations in terms of AI’s impact on work, surpassed only by Brazil (71 percent) and India (60 percent).
The research, titled AI at Work: What People Are Saying, is based on a survey of over 12,800 employees from the executive suite to the front lines across industries in 18 countries, including 1,126 from the Middle East.
According to the company, this regional focus is particularly relevant considering the ambitious national AI visions of Gulf countries, which emphasize the importance of AI in driving economic diversification, enhancing government services, and fostering a skilled workforce. For instance, the UAE is expected to see the largest AI impact of close to 14 percent of 2030 GDP with Dubai launching a center for AI as it looks to become a hub for $111 billion sector.
“The Middle East is emerging as a global frontrunner in embracing AI technologies, with employees recognizing the potential for AI to transform their jobs and drive economic growth,” said Elias Baltassis, Partner and Director at BCG X, the tech build and design unit of BCG.
“The survey results however also indicate that a significant percentage of respondents believe their jobs could be impacted negatively by AI, which underscores the need for effective risk management strategies and appropriate regulations. By striking the right balance between leveraging AI’s benefits and mitigating its risks, the region can ensure that the technology is harnessed responsibly and sustainably, ultimately contributing to the long-term growth and development of the region,” he added.
A significant majority of respondents (84 percent) in the region believe that their job is likely to be transformed by AI. Sixty percent of respondents think that their job is likely to be impacted negatively by AI. Despite these concerns, an overwhelming 78 percent of respondents are confident that the rewards of GenAI outweigh the risks.
However, this optimism is accompanied by a strong desire for risk management. A substantial 76 percent of all respondents believe that AI-specific regulations are necessary, underscoring the importance of striking a balance between embracing the potential benefits of AI and ensuring that its risks are properly managed through appropriate regulations.
The bottom line for leaders
Employees are ready to accept AI in the workplace, but only if they are comfortable that their employer is committed to doing the right thing. The report outlines three key recommendations for leaders as they navigate their organization through the AI revolution:
•Ensure that there is space for responsible AI experimentation. Comfort levels with technology play a key role, and the more regularly employees use AI and GenAI, the more they recognize its benefits—as well as its limitations and risks.
•Invest in regular upskilling. Given the pace at which technology is evolving, organizations cannot treat upskilling as a one-off effort. They need to invest in training to help employees prepare for changes in their work and help them succeed in their evolving roles.
•Prioritize building a responsible AI program: Employees want guidance and reassurance that their organizations are approaching AI and GenAI ethically, and leaders want to be able to help frame emerging AI regulations.
Baltassis wants companies to prioritize transparency and accountability in their AI systems to achieve responsible AI. “This means ensuring that their algorithms are free from bias and discrimination, and that they are used in ways that align with ethical principles,” he said. “It also means providing clear explanations of how AI is being used, and giving employees the tools they need to understand and engage with these systems.”
Baltassis also wants companies to be proactive in addressing any concerns or issues that arise from the use of AI, and be willing to make changes as needed.
“By prioritizing responsible AI, companies can not only reap the benefits of this powerful technology, but also build trust with their employees and stakeholders, and contribute to a more just and equitable society,” he said.
The BCG is launching a Center for Responsible Generative AI to support Middle Eastern clients and partners in leveraging next-generation AI solutions for positive impact and competitive advantage. This initiative aims to enhance operations, efficiency, and growth opportunities while focusing on upskilling talent, fostering innovation and accelerating the region’s overall economic and societal development.