Enterprises will not have to wait long for real-time uses that AI can help with
No longer a mere buzzword, AI has emerged as the cornerstone of the region’s transformative journey.
In 2024, businesses explored and experimented with GenAI tools, positioning AI as a central driver of operations. The following 12 months promise an era of accelerated digital transformation fuelled by cutting-edge technologies. Here’s how business leaders can stay ahead of what’s coming.
AI to Deliver Real Business Value
2025 is set to be the year AI shifts from exploration to execution. According to McKinsey, GenAI usage has doubled in just 10 months, where businesses in these stages are learning, testing and gaining insights into what AI can achieve.
For many, the test and learn phase is starting to pay off. Over the next year, enterprises will continue to see real RoI as they scale AI. A Strategy& report estimates that GenAI could contribute up to $23.5 billion annually to the Middle East’s economy by 2030.
For the region’s industries, the time has come to move from pilot projects to scaled solutions. The focus should shift to developing tailored, scalable AI applications that solve current challenges while also positioning companies for future opportunities.
Introducing AI PCs
Imagine starting your day with a PC that’s already handled the basics – drafted follow-ups, organized your to-do list, or summarized your emails while you were still making coffee. Welcome to 2025, where AI PCs bring this level of convenience to life.
These PCs are set to revolutionize how work gets done.Equipped with embedded AI capabilities, they can process data locally, resulting in faster performance, enhanced security and cost efficiency. Between higher performing CPUs, GPUs and NPUs and more PC silicon options in the market than ever before, the choice and innovation will be the best it’s ever been.
Rethinking the data center
AI is advancing faster than any technology in recent memory. In a recent analyst discussion, we found that by 2025, the overwhelming majority of AI processing (up to 70%-90%) will focus on inferencing – using AI to make real-time decisions. This shift isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a demand for entirely new approaches to data infrastructure.
It’s why traditional siloed data centers are being replaced by ‘disaggregated architectures’, which allow computing, storage, and networking systems to scale independently.
Furthermore, the rising cost of energy and the environmental impact of AI workloads on regional data centers present additional challenges. To meet this demand, businesses must look to energy-efficient hardware and diversified energy sources. Liquid cooling innovation is a perfect example.
Evolving with AI agents
2025 will also mark the rise of AI agents, which go far beyond chatbots or virtual assistants. AI agents are software systems that can plan, make decisions and take action to achieve pre-defined goals. They will be everywhere next year and will have a big impact on how we use AI.
From resolving intricate customer service queries to tailoring real-time marketing campaigns, AI agents will enable businesses to push boundaries. Gartner forecasts that by 2028, one-third of generative AI interactions will be handled by these agents.
AI becomes a universal skill
Recent surveys reveal that 72% of IT leaders identify AI skills as a critical gap requiring immediate attention. AI will become a cornerstone of every business, further refining collaboration between humans and machines.
Routine, task-oriented roles may diminish, and new opportunities, such as software composers, AI content editors and prompt engineers will gain prominence. It will empower leaders to explore new roles, innovate, and lead in a competitive business landscape.
Checklist for business leaders
- Commit to AI: Develop a comprehensive AI strategy. Test new applications, learn from initial challenges, and scale successful solutions quickly.
- Upgrade your tech stack: From AI-powered PCs to modernized data centers, ensure your infrastructure aligns with your ambitions.
- Lead on sustainability: Adopt energy-efficient technologies to position your brand as an environmentally responsible leader.
- Equip your teams: Empower employees with tools like AI agents that free them from repetitive tasks and unlock their strategic potential.
The businesses that thrive in 2025 will be those that approach these changes with clarity, agility and purpose. For the region’s vibrant tech ecosystem, the year ahead promises transformational growth.
Source: gulfnews