A recent study by recruitment firm Hays reveals that tech professionals in the Middle East are significantly more likely to use and train with artificial intelligence (AI) than their European counterparts. The survey, which included 5,014 tech professionals and 6,178 employers across 20 countries in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region, found that 56% of Middle East tech professionals are utilizing AI, compared to just 28% in Italy and 29% in France.
“AI has its risks, but it is here to stay,” said Oliver Kowalski, Regional Managing Director at Hays Middle East. “Those that embrace it will reap its rewards.”
The study also highlighted a strong desire for AI training among Middle Eastern tech professionals, with 82% expressing a desire for training, compared to only 31% of employers recommending its use. Kowalski noted that this eagerness for AI training presents a competitive advantage for companies in the Middle East seeking to attract tech talent.
Additionally, 68% of tech professionals in the GCC region associate AI with increased productivity and efficiency, and 66% of software developers in the region are using AI to write or debug code. Despite the enthusiasm for AI, only 24% of tech professionals in the GCC have received training or support to adopt AI technologies, although this is higher than in any European country except the Netherlands.
The report underscores the growing importance of AI in the Middle East’s tech landscape and the region’s proactive approach to embracing and developing AI skills.
