The UAE is experiencing a surge in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption across various industries. AI is rapidly transforming the UAE’s workforce and business landscape from automating tasks to driving innovation.

However, new research by Alteryx paints a complex picture of the UAE’s workforce as it prepares for an AI-driven future. While many existing roles face obsolescence, the skills businesses prioritize in hiring might not be needed to succeed with AI.

The report Defining the Enterprise of the Future highlights a potential disconnect. Businesses are actively recruiting for technical roles like software engineers (37%) and AI application engineers (32%) while neglecting “softer” skills like critical thinking (19%) and creativity (27%).

This focus on technical expertise contrasts with the anticipated rise of roles like “AI whisperers” (23%) who bridge the gap between humans and AI systems. Notably, 61% of respondents believe these roles will become crucial as AI adoption expands.

The research also suggests a potential oversaturation of certain technical skills. While AI/ML development is currently a top hiring priority (19%), 65% anticipate a surplus of such talent within the next three years.

The report emphasizes the growing importance of human-centric skills. With 60% identifying creativity as the top skill humans bring to an AI-powered workplace, critical thinking (46%) and emotional intelligence (42%) are also crucial.

However, only a third of respondents consider building human capacity a key consideration for the AI era. This disconnect suggests businesses might overlook the importance of effectively upskilling employees to collaborate with and manage AI systems.

“Only through continuous investments in data literacy, upskilling, and training opportunities will businesses create the professional trajectories where everyone can “speak data” and exploit AI applications for trusted, ethical outcomes,” said Libby Duane-Adams, Chief Advocacy Officer at Alteryx. 

The report urges businesses to focus on continuous learning and data literacy training. This will equip employees to navigate the evolving workplace and leverage AI for success.

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