Majority of Gulf Region Companies Now Adopting Gen AI – Survey

Why It Matters

The rapid uptake signals that GCC firms view AI as a strategic differentiator, but the gap between pilots and scaled deployment could determine regional competitiveness in finance, tax and legal services.

Key Takeaways

• Non‑adoption fell to 29% in 2025.
• Only 19% achieved enterprise‑wide AI implementation.
• 93% expect AI to significantly impact organisations.
• 38% prioritize quality improvement via Gen AI.
• 38% lack a defined AI implementation roadmap.

Pulse Analysis

The Gulf region’s surge in generative AI mirrors a broader global push toward intelligent automation, yet its pace is distinctive. High‑income economies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are leveraging AI to streamline tax calculations, financial reporting, and legal research, driven by cost pressures and a talent shortage. Deloitte’s data shows that while early‑stage experimentation is common, the region’s firms are moving faster than many peers, cutting non‑adoption rates by more than half within a year. This momentum reflects both governmental AI strategies and private‑sector appetite for efficiency gains.

Scaling AI from pilots to enterprise‑wide solutions remains the critical hurdle. Organizations cite a lack of clear roadmaps, governance frameworks, and skilled personnel as primary blockers. Without disciplined implementation, the risk of fragmented tools and compliance gaps grows, especially in regulated domains like tax and finance. Hybrid approaches—combining off‑the‑shelf platforms with in‑house development—are emerging as a pragmatic path, allowing firms to test capabilities while building internal expertise. Robust data management, model monitoring, and ethical guidelines are becoming non‑negotiable as firms aim to avoid bias and regulatory pitfalls.

For businesses eyeing a competitive edge, the survey underscores that AI is no longer a novelty but a strategic imperative. Companies that successfully transition to scaled AI can expect faster decision cycles, higher data accuracy, and reduced manual workload, translating into cost savings and enhanced client service. Leaders should prioritize a phased roadmap, invest in upskilling, and embed governance early to ensure responsible AI deployment. As the GCC continues to integrate generative AI, firms that master these fundamentals will likely set the benchmark for the region’s digital transformation.