Qlik and Cognizant Explore the Transformative Potential of AI in the Middle East

Exclusive Interview with Kelly Forbes, AI Advisory Council Member, Qlik

How would you describe the collaboration between Qlik and Cognizant evolving in the future

It’s been great to see Qlik and Cognizant tapping into their partnership to support this transition. This collaboration really stems from a shared respect for the challenges ahead. There’s a significant amount of awareness and education that needs to happen, and we’ve seen some of that progress here today, where people can openly discuss the challenges they’re facing on the ground.

This creates an opportunity to differentiate between the broad potential of AI and how each organization can develop specific recommendations to address their unique challenges. It’s about identifying the role AI plays in tackling those issues while ensuring organizations can fully prepare their workforce for the changes that lie ahead.

Through this partnership, we can work together and collaborate to address challenges while utilizing technology to solve problems and seize opportunities. The potential of AI is vast and can be applied across various sectors. However, the focus should be on understanding the specific, day-to-day problems organizations face and exploring how AI can play a pivotal role in addressing those challenges.

When it comes to adopting AI, what are some challenges that you can discuss, and what are organizations in the region currently facing?

I think the biggest challenge is around resistance, right? We’re currently in a stage where technology is becoming normalized, and we’re getting used to it. When people work, there’s often a question of, ‘What can this technology do for us?’ There’s a significant need for education and awareness about how AI will change the way people work.

Currently, there’s a stigma and concerns about whether AI is taking jobs away. I think the more familiar people become with AI, the more comfortable they’ll feel learning and working alongside it. That’s the transition we need to make.

This is where partnerships can play a vital role—bringing organizations together to build awareness and create activities that address these concerns. Typically, through shared experiences and collaboration on these topics, organizations can learn from each other as we collectively navigate this transition.

How do you see the investment landscape in the Middle East in terms of AI adoption?

I think it’s an exciting space to be in. This region is doing so much. The potential value of AI in the Middle East is estimated at around $320 billion.

Here in the UAE, we’re seeing significant investments and infrastructure development, as well as the implementation of policies that support AI. They also have ambitious projects in the pipeline, many of which are driven by AI and automation.

The next step is linking all these different initiatives together. It’s about how governments can fully tap into this potential while ensuring that progress happens in a responsible way.

As part of my presentation, I’ve outlined guiding questions to help organizations and governments think about this responsibility. Collaborating with Qlik has been rewarding because we’re focused on how companies can play a leading role in this transformation.

How do you see regulations being implemented in the AI sphere? How do you think organizations will cooperate with these regulations?

It’s a very challenging space, and it’s evolving quickly. In the last one or two years, we’ve seen a lot of changes. Here in the UAE, they’re thinking carefully about regulations, particularly in the data protection space, and how these need to adapt to AI.

Globally, we’re seeing similar developments. For example, Europe’s AI Act is a significant step forward. The reality is that international developments, like what’s happening in Europe, will undoubtedly shape and impact businesses here. If you’re doing business with Europe, those regulations will affect the way you operate.

This creates a balancing act for companies. They need to reflect these international expectations in their operations here, especially large companies with a global presence.

At the same time, this is an opportunity for businesses that are paying close attention to these developments. Those who adapt quickly will be at the forefront of this transition.

What’s the future of work like with the popularization of AI?

I don’t think anyone can answer that with complete certainty, but we do know AI is changing the future of work. On one hand, it’s automating many tasks, and there’s a possibility that some roles might disappear. On the other hand, it’s also creating new jobs.

The key is to think about how we manage this transition—how we provide opportunities for people to learn new skills and upskill so they’re equipped to take on these new roles. That’s going to be crucial in shaping the future of work.