Endava research reveals a major trust shift as UAE executives approve AI-led decisions in hiring, salaries, and health policies, marking a global leadership milestone in AI adoption.
In a groundbreaking shift, UAE business leaders are now placing unprecedented trust in artificial intelligence (AI) to make high-stakes decisions traditionally reserved for human judgment. According to new research by Endava, 79% of UAE decision-makers are comfortable with AI allocating budgets, managing talent, and even overseeing health and safety protocols.
This marks a pivotal moment in the region’s digital transformation journey. The study highlights that four in five executives would trust AI to guide their career paths, financial planning, and health decisions—signaling a societal shift toward AI as a strategic life advisor.
The UAE’s rapid ascent in AI adoption is underscored by its billion-dollar investments in infrastructure and innovation. Nearly half of respondents believe the nation is ahead of the global curve, ranking the Middle East just behind the U.S. and China in AI leadership.
“With a workforce this receptive and government vision this clear, this approach is helping position the UAE as a global reference point for AI done right.”
– David Boast, MM, Endava
David Boast, General Manager – UAE & KSA at Endava, emphasized the importance of this trust:
“Trust is the critical enabler of any AI strategy. The UAE’s clear national vision, its youthful and tech-savvy demographic, and its digital-first mindset are combining to give organisations a unique opportunity to innovate with confidence.”
The optimism is also reflected in job creation, with 75% of leaders expecting AI to enhance job satisfaction and introduce roles like ‘Head of AI’. However, only 25% feel their infrastructure is fully ready for enterprise-grade AI, highlighting the need for strategic implementation.
As UAE businesses race to stay competitive, the message is clear: AI is no longer a future concept—it’s a trusted partner in shaping the present.
