A recent report by Korn Ferry reveals that artificial intelligence has become a core business priority across the GCC, with 93% of companies currently exploring, piloting, or deploying AI solutions. Nearly half of these organizations are now moving beyond the conceptual stage into active pilots. While 81% of business leaders are driven by the promise of increased productivity, they face significant hurdles, including technical integration issues, talent shortages, and difficulty in establishing clear frameworks to measure return on investment.

Despite this high level of ambition, a notable gap remains in organizational readiness. The data shows that only 1% of firms feel fully prepared for an AI-integrated future, while nearly a third admit they are not ready at all. This transition is further complicated by a top-heavy approach to hiring, where companies prioritize senior specialists over entry-level talent. Experts suggest that for GCC companies to transition from experimental pilots to long-term performance, they must shift their focus toward building robust internal infrastructure and nurturing a sustainable talent pipeline.