According to new research by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), consumers in the UAE are highly enthusiastic about AI, and professionals see it as a tool and a partner in driving innovation and efficiency. The study, titled Consumers Know More About AI than Business Leaders Think, shows that this enthusiasm aligns with global trends, which show high consumer awareness and excitement about AI.

Globally, over 80% of survey participants are aware of GenAI, with a quarter actively using it. Notably, younger individuals under 35 show higher engagement, with 86% awareness and 32% usage, compared to 80% and 20% usage among those over 35.

The UAE demonstrates more robust engagement and nuanced sentiments towards GenAI. In the UAE, 91% of consumers know GenAI, and 34% use these technologies. Emotions are mixed: 37% are excited, 46% feel conflicted, and 17% are concerned, resulting in a net sentiment of 20% (excited minus concerned).

“This finding highlights the region’s forward-thinking attitude towards technology and should be a wake-up call for business leaders. The high engagement levels in the UAE show the need for responsible AI frameworks that address consumers’ data privacy concerns. We must continue fostering this positive outlook while addressing the concerns accompanying such seismic shifts,” said Rami Mourtada, Partner and Director at BCG. 

According to the report, 67% of employees in the UAE are excited about GenAI’s potential to enhance their work environment, with only 13% expressing concerns. This reflects a dynamic workforce that sees AI as a tool for innovation and efficiency, leading to a net sentiment of 54% in favor of AI.