How People Feel about AI in UAE

How People Feel about AI in UAE 

People are still on the fence about AI. 

According to a report by Hays, 61% of bosses say AI hasn't changed their hiring plans. 

However, 37% believe AI might end up costing more jobs than it creates. 

As for what they're doing about it, nearly 4 in 10 bosses are still scratching their heads, and around 3 in 10 are taking their time to weigh the pros and cons before making any moves.

In the Gulf region, bosses are split on whether to jump on the AI bandwagon—some are all for it (41%), some are against it (37%), and others aren't quite sure yet (22%).

The ones giving AI the cold shoulder are worried about security, privacy, and the lack of proper training. However, the pro-AI camp sees it as a productivity booster, a creativity catalyst, and a way to reduce errors.

• 41% bosses in the Gulf region are supportive of AI. 
• 37% are against it. 
• 22% are unsure about how they feel. 
• Major concerns about AI are due to security, privacy and lack of proper training. 

Source: Hays Salary Guide 2024 

But What About AI in Hiring? 

Workable’s AI in Hiring and Work: 2024 Survey Report highlights the role of AI in recruitment and workforce dynamics. Based on insights from 950 hiring managers in the US and UK, the report reveals key findings:

1. The report highlights a significant surge in AI utilization during hiring processes, redefining efficiency and effectiveness in sourcing and selecting candidates

2. Employees generally view AI positively in their work environment but are apprehensive about job security.

This survey shows us that hiring is changing quickly, and AI plays an influential role. The main idea? AI is here to help; ensuring it's fair and works well with people is important as it improves.

How AI Helping People in Hiring in UAE

• 60% of people said they use some AI tool for hiring. 
• 90% of people said AI helps them hire faster. 
• 80% of people said AI helps them save money while hiring. 
• 50+% people use AI as a helper. 
• 50+% people said AI is great at looking for resumes.
• 13% of people said AI helps you find good matches.  
• 75% of people said AI helps them get more work done.

Top Concerns of Using AI  

• 16% feel that sometimes technology acts up.
• 10% worry about AI being unfair. 
• 37% are concerned about keeping things private.
• 60+% worry that AI will take over their jobs.

Source: AI in Hiring and Work: Workable 2024 

Final word

There isn't much research on how AI is used for hiring in the Middle East. The Middle East has unique cultures, rules, and economic factors that affect how AI might be used in hiring. As more MENAP-based companies jump on this trend, there's a need for research that looks at how well it works here, considers ethical issues, and adapts AI tools to fit local needs