Cisco Unveils Saudi AI Readiness Ahead of LEAP

In anticipation of the upcoming LEAP 2024 technology conference in Riyadh, Cisco has unveiled insightful findings from its AI Readiness Index, shedding light on Saudi Arabia’s technological preparedness. The index, based on a comprehensive survey spanning over 8,000 companies across 30 nations, underscores the accelerating adoption of AI technologies globally.

According to the survey, a staggering 93% of organizations in Saudi Arabia have either developed an AI strategy or are in the process of formulating one. However, only a mere 8% feel fully equipped to deploy and harness the potential of AI effectively.

Among the anticipated benefits of AI adoption, enhancing operational efficiency and boosting productivity emerge as the foremost objectives, with 47% of respondents in Saudi Arabia prioritizing these outcomes. Surprisingly, only 30% of respondents foresee AI’s potential to generate new revenue streams.

Addressing the skills gap remains a crucial focus area, with 31% of respondents in Saudi Arabia highlighting the need for improved comprehension and proficiency in AI tools and technologies. Encouragingly, 82% of surveyed organizations are actively investing in employee training to bridge this gap.

However, the survey reveals significant challenges concerning infrastructure readiness and cybersecurity. Only 12% of local organizations boast networks fully capable of handling the complexities of AI workloads. Moreover, a concerning 70% of respondents admit to lacking comprehensive measures to detect and prevent adversarial attacks on AI models.

Salman Faqeeh, Managing Director of Cisco Saudi Arabia, emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to AI-driven transformation, citing it as a cornerstone of Vision 2030. He stressed the importance of leveraging AI to drive innovation across industries, aligning with Cisco’s longstanding dedication to integrating AI across its portfolio.

At LEAP 2024, themed “AI Unleashed: Shaping Sustainable Digital Evolution,” Cisco will showcase its latest technological innovations aimed at fostering a sustainable, securely connected future. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Cisco’s experts, explore AI demos, and gain insights into industry-specific use cases.

Reem Asaad,

Vice President for Cisco Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, Romania, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), reiterated Cisco’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation journey. She emphasized the company’s role in advancing national digital economies, enhancing infrastructure, bolstering cybersecurity, and nurturing talent pools across the region.

LEAP 2024 is scheduled to take place from March 4th to 7th at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Centre. Cisco’s booth, located at J10 in Hall 1 – Big Tech, promises to be a hub of innovation and collaboration, offering attendees insights into the transformative power of AI technologies.