Saudi firms yet to fully embrace AI: Cisco survey

Cisco’s booth at LEAP 2024. This year, Cisco’s participation at LEAP 2025 centers around connecting and protecting businesses in the AI era.
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Updated 02 February 2025
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Saudi firms yet to fully embrace AI: Cisco survey

Ahead of the LEAP 2025 conference in Riyadh, Cisco announced findings from its latest AI Readiness Index, which reveals that 72 percent of organizations in the Kingdom have a strategy to deploy AI powered solutions in their organization. The report highlights that despite increasing urgency in deployment and investment, businesses in Saudi Arabia face challenges in adopting, deploying, and fully leveraging AI, amid the rapid market evolution and the significant impact AI is anticipated to have on business operations.

The index is based on a double-blind survey of 7,985 senior business leaders from organizations with 500 or more employees across 30 markets, including Saudi Arabia. These leaders are responsible for AI integration and deployment within their organizations. The AI Readiness Index is measured across six pillars: strategy, infrastructure, data, governance, talent, and culture.

Key findings include:

Acting with urgency

AI has become a cornerstone for business strategy, and there is an increasing urgency among companies to adopt and deploy AI technologies. In the Kingdom, nearly all (98 percent) report an increased urgency to deploy AI in the past year, primarily driven by the CEO and leadership team. Nearly all (86 percent) companies say they only have 18 months to start demonstrating the impact of AI. More than half (60 percent) give it only 12 months.

Rising investment

Over the past year, AI has been a priority spend for organizations in Saudi Arabia, with 50 percent allocating 10-30 percent of their IT budgets to AI projects. AI investments have focused on three strategic areas: IT infrastructure (51 percent), cybersecurity (40 percent), and data management (38 percent). The top three outcomes they aim to achieve include improving the efficiency of systems, processes, operations, and profitability; the ability to innovate and remain competitive; and creating a better experience for customers and partners. 




Salman Faqeeh, managing director, Cisco Saudi Arabia

Infrastructure gaps

Networks are yet to be equipped to meet AI workloads. There are gaps in compute, data center network performance, and cybersecurity, among other areas. Only 31 percent of organizations have the necessary GPUs to meet current and future AI demands and nearly a third (34 percent) have the capabilities to protect data in AI models with end–to–end encryption, security audits, continuous monitoring, and instant threat response. In Saudi Arabia, 62 percent rated improving scalability, flexibility, and manageability of their IT infrastructure as their top priorities, showing they are aware of the gaps that need to be addressed.

Skills development

A lack of skilled talent is a top challenge for companies in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the critical need for skilled professionals to drive AI initiatives. Only 46 percent of Saudi organizations claim their talent is at a high state of readiness to fully leverage AI, and 39 percent say their organizations lack in-house talent necessary for successful AI deployment.

Salman Faqeeh, managing director, Cisco Saudi Arabia, said: “Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of embracing AI as a catalyst for digital transformation. The findings of Cisco’s recent AI Readiness Index highlight the significant strides organizations in the Kingdom are making, with clearly defined strategies and increasing investments in AI. At Cisco, we are committed to empowering organizations with cutting-edge technologies and expertise to realize the full potential of AI.”

He added: “Our participation at LEAP 2025 under the theme ‘Cisco Connects and Protects the AI Era,’ underscores our dedication to promoting innovation and collaboration in the country, in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.”

This year, Cisco’s participation at LEAP 2025 centers around connecting and protecting businesses in the AI era. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with subject matter experts at Cisco’s booth and explore innovative solutions designed to transform data centers to power AI workloads, modernize workplaces for seamless collaboration, and enhance digital resilience with advanced security and observability.


Carrier opens its new Middle East experience center in Dammam

Updated 11 March 2025
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Carrier opens its new Middle East experience center in Dammam

Carrier in the Middle East proudly announces the opening of its newest Carrier Experience Center in Dammam.

This premier training hub will serve channel partners, customers, and educational institutions across Saudi Arabia, reinforcing Carrier’s commitment to industry development and knowledge sharing. Carrier is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.

Designed to provide hands-on training and in-depth technical knowledge on Carrier’s advanced HVAC technologies, the center offers structured courses, practical demonstrations and expert-led workshops. It will enable channel partners and customers to enhance their skills and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Additionally, the center will collaborate with universities and educational institutions, offering specialized programs to equip the next generation of HVAC professionals with essential knowledge and expertise.

“Carrier has always been committed to empowering our partners and customers with the latest knowledge and technological advancements,” said Tony Jabbour, managing director, Carrier Middle East. “The launch of the Carrier Experience Center in Dammam reflects our dedication to strengthening technical capabilities in the region and supporting the future of the HVAC industry in Saudi Arabia.”

The center also features a comprehensive product display showcasing Carrier’s latest HVAC products and solutions. This display enables customers to experience firsthand the cutting-edge technologies and innovations that Carrier offers, helping them make informed decisions about their HVAC needs.

Salman Zebian, general manager, Carrier Saudi Arabia, added: “This new facility will serve as a center of excellence, offering best-in-class training and resources to our partners and customers. By extending our expertise to educational institutions, we are also fostering talent development and preparing future leaders in the HVAC sector.”

The opening event was attended by key customers and Carrier team members, underscoring the company’s commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the region. The Carrier Experience Center in Dammam marks a significant step in Carrier’s mission to enhance industry knowledge and technical proficiency in Saudi Arabia.


Aldar partners with The Digital School to support communities, empower future

Updated 11 March 2025
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Aldar partners with The Digital School to support communities, empower future

Aldar has signed a partnership with The Digital School, a Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiative, to support the groundbreaking “Donate Your Own Device” campaign. Aligned with the UAE’s Year of Community, this collaboration underscores Aldar’s unwavering commitment to enhancing digital access to education, ensuring that students locally and internationally have the tools they need to thrive.

The “Donate Your Own Device” campaign is a powerful initiative aimed at bridging the digital divide worldwide by encouraging individuals and organizations to contribute unused laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices. In a world where technology is integral to education, this campaign is creating a path to opportunity for students who lack the necessary resources to access digital learning.

As part of this collaboration, Aldar will contribute AED 500,000 as well as donating used electronic devices from its offices, schools, and communities, promoting a circular economy. This collective effort will not only provide essential tools for online learning but will also empower students to engage with educational content, develop critical digital skills, and unlock their potential for a brighter future.

Faisal Falaknaz, chief financial and sustainability officer at Aldar, said: “Our partnership with The Digital School is a testament to Aldar’s belief that education is a fundamental right and a powerful catalyst for change. Bridging the digital divide is essential in today’s world, and this impactful initiative will enable every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, to access quality education and equip them with the tools they need to succeed. We are not only investing in individuals but also contributing to a brighter, more equitable future.”

Dr. Waleed Al-Ali, secertary-general of The Digital School, said: “Our collaboration with Aldar marks a pivotal step in closing the digital gap and expanding access to digital education for students in need across the globe. The ‘Donate Your Own Device’ initiative goes beyond simply redistributing technology—it’s an investment in the future, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in an increasingly digital world.” 

This partnership underscores our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, flexible education, working alongside dedicated partners who share our vision for a more inclusive and sustainable learning experience.”


Mastercard, LikeCard launch family banking solution to make smart spending simpler

Updated 11 March 2025
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Mastercard, LikeCard launch family banking solution to make smart spending simpler

Mastercard and LikeCard, one of the leading platforms of e-commerce prepaid cards in the Middle East and North Africa region, have partnered to launch an innovative family banking solution designed to enhance financial literacy and responsible spending. 

The platform empowers parents and children with a seamless and secure digital banking experience, helping families make smarter financial decisions together.

With AI-powered financial tools integrated into a simple smartphone app, the solution makes it easier for families to track expenses, set spending limits, and teach children essential money management skills. Parents gain real-time oversight, while children develop healthy financial habits through interactive learn-and-reward features.

“At Mastercard, we believe financial literacy is the foundation of economic empowerment. By partnering with LikeCard, we are equipping families across MENA with the knowledge and tools to build responsible financial futures. This solution reimagines banking for the digital age, fostering smarter spending and saving habits for the ‘digital natives’ generation,” said Muhammad Nana, senior vice president, digital partnerships and enablers, Mastercard EEMEA.

The platform’s Earn, Spend, and Save feature allows children to earn rewards for completing chores, set savings goals, and develop responsible money habits.

“LikeCard was founded to bridge financial access gaps with innovative, user-friendly digital solutions. Our collaboration with Mastercard brings an AI-driven family banking experience to the region, empowering families with financial literacy tools while enhancing security and convenience,” said Ammar Alsoos, CEO, LikeCard.

Beyond banking, the solution offers personalized savings opportunities, including cashback rewards and discounts on education, entertainment, health, and virtual investments. Families can also access tailored financial products such as installment plans and lending solutions, making it easier to manage expenses and plan for the future.

By simplifying financial education and embedding responsible spending tools into everyday life, Mastercard and LikeCard are helping families across MENA build a smarter, more secure financial future-together.


Dyson continues its expansion in KSA with Red Sea Mall opening

Updated 10 March 2025
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Dyson continues its expansion in KSA with Red Sea Mall opening

Dyson is reinforcing its commitment to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the opening of a new Dyson Demo Store in Jeddah, further solidifying the importance of the Saudi market with its growing presence in the region. Opened at Red Sea Mall in Jeddah, the new store will offer immersive experiences that bring Dyson’s pioneering technology to life.

The new Dyson Demo Store will showcase the brand’s full product portfolio, including hair care, floor care, environmental care, and audio innovations. 

Customers will have the opportunity to receive personalized technology demonstrations and expert advice from brand specialists, ensuring an interactive and educational shopping experience.

The Red Sea Mall store in Jeddah opened Feb. 27, spanning 120 sqm and strategically located at the mall’s main entrance, opposite Bateel Café. 

The store features two private styling stations and for the first time in the Kingdom a wash basin. The styling stations are suitable for veiled customers, allowing visitors to trial Dyson’s advanced hair care technology and book styling sessions upon request. 

Stylists will demonstrate the latest products, including the Dyson Airwrap i.d. multi-styler, the Supersonic Nural hair dryer, the Dyson Airstrait and Dyson Corrale cord-free straightener, offering personalized sessions tailored to each visitor’s needs to help them choose which device to take home.

Additional to the styling stations, the store offers customers access to Dyson’s full range of its newest innovations such as the 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum, the Big+Quiet Purifier, and the sleek OnTrac headphones, which offer 55-hour run time.

The new store opening represents another significant milestone in Dyson’s expansion in the Kingdom, following the successful launch of the flagship store in Nakheel Mall, Riyadh last year. 

Dyson remains dedicated to providing consumers with direct access to its cutting-edge technology, creating dedicated spaces for immersive, hands-on experiences. 

The brand continues to focus on enhancing the in-store experience, allowing customers in Saudi Arabia to explore, test, and discover its revolutionary technology up close.

All Dyson’s products are available for purchase online at www.dyson.sa or from Dyson stores located in Nakheel Mall in Dammam and Riyadh, and now in Red Sea Mall.


AUS partners with Group AMANA to drive student development

Updated 10 March 2025
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AUS partners with Group AMANA to drive student development

American University of Sharjah’s Engineering Al Nukhba Program has welcomed Group AMANA, a regional leader in design-build construction, as its newest industry partner. The memorandum of understanding signed between the two parties will offer AUS students professional training, career development and research opportunities, strengthening the link between academia and industry.

The AUS Engineering Al Nukhba Program, designed to foster immersive industry partnerships, gives engineering students a competitive advantage by connecting them with leading firms across multiple disciplines. Through hands-on training, mentorship and research collaboration, the program ensures students are equipped with the practical skills needed to succeed in an evolving job market.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, dean of the AUS College of Engineering, emphasized the strategic significance of the partnership, stating: “Building meaningful partnerships with industry is key to equipping our students with the tools to excel in an increasingly complex and competitive global market.

“Our collaboration with Group AMANA aligns with our vision to produce engineering graduates who are future-ready—combining technical expertise with practical industry insights and leadership capabilities. Together, we are preparing the next generation of innovators who will shape the future of construction and engineering.”

Joe Labaki, chief operating officer, at Group AMANA: “I would like to thank American University of Sharjah for this valuable opportunity to collaborate with the next generation of leaders. This MoU marks a significant step in fostering innovation, knowledge exchange and a shared commitment to shaping the future of engineering.”

“This partnership will help empower these future leaders with real-world insights and hands-on experience. We are excited to welcome them to our sites across the UAE, where they will have the chance to witness the impact of cutting-edge engineering solutions that are transforming the industry,” said Labaki.

Under the agreement, Group AMANA will recruit and train AUS students through several professional development pathways, including internships, graduate recruitment and AMANA’s Graduate Program “AMANA.Seed”— an intensive track designed to develop high-potential individuals for leadership roles within the company.