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Analysts estimate that AI could contribute nearly US$320 billion to the region’s economy by 2030, equivalent to around 11% of GDP. This figure underscores the potential for growth, but it also carries a warning: without parallel investment in workforce skills and governance, large parts of the region’s talent pool risk being left behind.

Recent surveys highlight this divide. Almost half of professionals (47%) see AI as a positive force for their careers, while 22% are concerned about negative consequences, and 31% remain unsure whether AI adoption will truly take hold. Meanwhile, PwC forecasts significant national gains, with Saudi Arabia (US$135.2 billion), the UAE (US$96.0 billion), and Egypt (US$42.7 billion) among the top beneficiaries by 2030.

The message is clear, AI has the potential to transform the region’s economies, but success will depend on how effectively businesses and governments prepare their people for the changes ahead.

Why Upskilling Cannot Wait

AI promises to accelerate competitiveness, drive innovation, and enable new industries. Yet this transformation hinges on one factor above all - skills. A digital economy cannot thrive without a workforce that knows how to use AI responsibly and effectively.

Three themes stand out:

• Economic potential: AI is becoming a central driver of productivity and diversification.
• Workforce readiness: Professionals recognise AI will redefine roles, but training opportunities have yet to match the pace of demand.
• Momentum for change: Businesses and governments are beginning to mobilise, but urgency is high.

In short, upskilling is no longer optional. It is a board-level priority that can determine whether organisations capture productivity gains and talent retention or risk widening the skills gap.

Regional Leadership and Economic Context

The region’s leaders are already signaling intent. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has invited innovators and investors to unlock the value of data and AI in building knowledge-based economies. In the UAE, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, has stressed the need for highly qualified professionals in AI fields such as computer vision, machine learning, and robotics, skills that are in short supply worldwide.

The urgency is amplified by broader economic trends. The World Bank projects regional GDP growth of 2.6% in 2025 and 3.7% in 2026, but continued reliance on oil among Gulf states highlights the need for diversification. AI is increasingly viewed as the engine to drive that shift.

Adoption vs. Maturity

Most organisations in the MENA region plan to increase their AI investments, but few can be described as “mature” adopters. Pilot projects are common, yet scalable data foundations, governance structures, and productised workflows are often missing.

This maturity gap is felt by employees directly. Many expect AI to reshape their roles, but worry about not having the training or tools to use it effectively. For some, the promise of better AI training is compelling enough to consider changing employers.

According to McKinsey, 92% of companies plan to increase AI investments in the next three years, but only 1% consider themselves fully mature adopters. Employees anticipate automation of up to 30% of their tasks, yet remain concerned about algorithmic inaccuracies and cybersecurity risks. This highlights the need for training that balances technical know-how with ethical awareness and data governance.

Evidence in Action

There are already examples in the region that showcase the payoff from strategic AI adoption. Emirates NBD has invested in more than 70 analytics experts, developed over 100 AI models, and embedded analytics across its operations. The result: an expected return of 5–7 times through cost savings, risk reduction, and new revenue streams.

This illustrates a broader lesson: companies that integrate AI effectively will gain an edge in speed, accuracy, and innovation. Those that delay risk losing not only competitive advantage but also the trust and loyalty of their workforce.

The AI era is no longer on the horizon, it is here. For MENA, the next few years will be decisive. Governments and companies that move quickly to invest in AI skills and governance will set themselves apart as leaders in innovation, growth, and inclusion. Those that wait may find the opportunity has passed them by.

Upskilling is not just about adopting a new technology; it is about preparing people for the future of work. And in that preparation lies the key to unlocking the region’s full economic and social potential.

Author: Rahul Sonthalia, Commercial Director at Kaplan Middle East & North Africa