UAE Takes the Lead in Strategic Preparedness for Artificial Intelligence, According to Cisco Index

The Cisco index for artificial intelligence readiness, which measures the readiness of companies for deploying and utilizing AI-supported technologies, has shown that the UAE outperforms most countries in the world in this field.

According to the indicator, 73% of institutions in the Emirates have a strong artificial intelligence strategy, compared to a global average of 57%.

This ambitious number reflects the clear vision of the UAE in adopting artificial intelligence as a driver for economic growth and innovation.

A global survey was conducted, including over 8,000 companies in 30 countries, in response to the accelerated adoption of artificial intelligence in various sectors and industries, which represents a radical transformation over one or more generations.

The survey sheds light on the opportunities and challenges that companies face in their journey towards leveraging artificial intelligence. It evaluates their readiness through six main pillars of work, which are strategy, infrastructure, data, governance, talent, and culture.

In addition to strategic preparedness, the results revealed that the United Arab Emirates is also progressing in other areas such as data, talent, and culture.

80% of participants in the United Arab Emirates reported that they invest in training their employees to utilize artificial intelligence tools, compared to a global average of 69%.

76% of them confirmed that their institutions adopt artificial intelligence at a level ranging from moderate to high importance, compared to the global average of 64%.

However, there are some challenges that need to be focused on and improved, especially in the field of infrastructure and governance.

The study revealed that only 7% of institutions in the UAE currently possess the complete readiness of the necessary infrastructure to comply with the requirements of artificial intelligence work, compared to a global average of 14%.

The adaptable, flexible, and secure infrastructure is a crucial factor in ensuring the performance, reliability, and accountability of AI-powered solutions.

In the field of governance, 58% of participants in the UAE expressed concern about the ethical, legal, and social impacts of artificial intelligence, compared to a global average of 54%.

Governance requires the establishment of standards, policies, and regulations to ensure the transparent, fair, and ethical use of artificial intelligence in line with fundamental values and principles.