New research by Veritas Technologies unveils the extensive adoption of generative AI tools among UAE office workers, positioning the UAE as a global leader in AI adoption. However, despite high adoption rates, uncertainty prevails regarding optimal usage and employee sentiment remains mixed.
The integration of generative AI in workplaces, while boosting productivity for many, is also fostering a divide among employees and heightening the risk of inadvertent exposure of sensitive information. Among respondents based in the UAE, 68% believe that those not utilizing generative AI tools are missing out on enhanced productivity levels. Within this group, 48% express the need for additional training to level the playing field in the workplace. Regardless of their stance on generative AI adoption, 96% emphasize the importance of having guidelines and policies governing its usage, yet only 47% of UAE employers currently offer mandatory directives on its use.
Johnny Karam, Managing Director & Vice President of International Emerging Regions at Veritas Technologies, remarked, “The UAE remains at the forefront of adopting new technologies, both regionally and globally. However, the journey with publicly accessible generative AI extends beyond mere adoption. The growing disparity among employees and concerns regarding safeguarding sensitive data underscore the pressing necessity for comprehensive training and regulatory guidelines to ensure both skill development and the security of the vast datasets they handle.”
Lack of generative AI guidelines and policies is putting organisations at risk
Organizations are increasingly vulnerable due to the absence of clear guidelines and policies regarding generative AI usage. A significant portion (34%) of office workers acknowledge inputting potentially sensitive data into these tools, unaware of the risks involved, with 56% failing to grasp the potential for public data leaks and 58% lacking understanding of the implications for data privacy compliance.
Lack of generative AI guidelines and policies is causing organisations to miss out
This lack of guidance extends globally, with the UAE leading in generative AI tool adoption, where 82% of office workers use such tools weekly. However, only 57% of respondents have received any guidance from their employers on acceptable usage. This lack of clarity leads to negative outcomes, including employee discord and a disparity in workplace advantages, with 68% of UAE respondents reporting unfair advantages for users of generative AI.
Moreover, many employees remain unaware of the full potential of generative AI, missing out on efficiency gains. Those who utilize it correctly report benefits such as faster information access (63%), increased productivity (51%), task automation (47%), idea generation (51%), and problem-solving advice (33%).
Employees want generative AI guidelines and policies
Employees express a strong desire (85%) for guidelines, policies, or training from their employers. They seek clarity to ensure appropriate usage, reduce risks, and foster a level playing field in the workplace.
In conclusion, while there’s growing awareness among employees regarding the transformative potential of AI, organizations must prioritize training and guidance initiatives. This is essential not only for seamless technology integration but also for bridging skills gaps and ensuring organizational resilience amidst technological advancements.
