< PreviousBIG PICTURE 10 EDGE | February 2025 Simplifying modern-day complexities THE QUANTUM QUESTION Edge_Feb2025_10-11_Big Picture_13503048.indd 10Edge_Feb2025_10-11_Big Picture_13503048.indd 1004/02/2025 11:0504/02/2025 11:05BIG PICTURE EDGE | February 2025 11 Quantum computing is transforming the technological landscape with its unparalleled processing power and potential to solve problems that are intractable for classical computers. Unlike traditional computers that use binary bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers leverage qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously thanks to quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement. This capability allows quantum computers to perform complex calculations at speeds exponentially faster than today’s systems. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, fi nance and logistics stand to benefi t greatly. Quantum computing is being used to model molecular structures for drug discovery, optimise portfolios and streamline supply chains. As quantum computing matures, it promises break throughs in cr yptography, artif icial intelligence and material science, making it a cornerstone of next-generation technology. In cryptography, it promises to break traditional encryption methods, necessitating the development of quantum-safe algorithms. In pharmaceuticals, quantum computers could accelerate drug discovery by simulating complex molecular interactions. Similarly, in logistics and fi nance, quantum algorithms can help optimise supply chains and portfolio management with remarkable effi ciency and accuracy. Quantum computing, though often associated with solving complex scientific problems, holds immense potential for transforming everyday tasks. By optimising processes, it can revolutionise logistics, enabling faster delivery routes and reducing costs. In personalised healthcare, quantum algorithms could enhance diagnostics and treatment planning. Financial services may benefi t from real-time fraud detection and improved risk analysis. Even mundane tasks like scheduling and resource allocation could become more effi cient with quantum-powered solutions. However, challenges remain. Quantum computers are highly sensitive to external disturbances, requiring specialised environments to maintain qubit stability. Moreover, building scalable and fault- tolerant quantum systems is a signifi cant hurdle. Despite these challenges, industry giants are making strides in quantum research, while countries and companies worldwide are investing heavily in quantum technologies and solutions. As quantum computing continues to evolve, its transformative potential is poised to reshape industries, solving problems that were once considered complex and insurmountable. Edge_Feb2025_10-11_Big Picture_13503048.indd 11Edge_Feb2025_10-11_Big Picture_13503048.indd 1104/02/2025 11:0504/02/2025 11:05NEWS 12 EDGE | February 2025 $630B AI expenditure projected to rise by 2028 As we edge closer to a world where AI’s economic contribution could hit $15.7 trillion by 2030, the need for cross-sector collaboration, innovation and alignment has never been more urgent. This is where Ai Everything GLOBAL (AiEG) steps in – a pivotal event uniting global stakeholders to accelerate breakthroughs, knowledge exchange, and accountability frameworks to lead the charge into a new era of Human-AI augmentation. Ai Everything GLOBAL kicks off on 4th February with a Global Summit hosting the world’s most formidable AI leaders, experts and policymakers at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. The event then moves to the iconic Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai, from 5th to 6th February. With 500+ enterprises and award- winning startups, 500 Chief AI Offi cers (CAIOs), 150 international expert speakers, 150 strategic investors, and 100 commercial AI developers from 100+ countries, AiEG will set the stage for transformative discussions, industry exploration and cross-continental impact. The Global Summit in Abu Dhabi opens the Ai Everything GLOBAL programme. The action continues in Dubai with the Ai Everything GLOBAL Exhibition & Conference at Expo City Dubai, where attendees will discover the most revolutionary AI solutions and applications shaping the industries of tomorrow. With global organisational AI expenditure projected to increase from $235 billion in 2024 to over $630 billion by 2028, the showcase becomes a hotspot to hands-on experience game-changing AI innovations. Alongside big tech enterprises, the event will also feature over 200 of the world’s top-rated startups, including US-based AI infrastructure specialist CentML, a ‘Rising Star’ in the 2024 Intelligent Applications Top 40 list; and Dia Industries, the Brazilian automation and robotics startup currently developing ALVE, one of the world’s fi rst AI-powered humanoids. As the #1 platform for startups to shine, early-stage AI companies will also connect with 150+ global investors with $50 billion in assets under management (AUM) whilst sourcing funding, investment deals and partnership opportunities. AI EVERYTHING GLOBAL 2025 TO SPOTLIGHT EVOLVING AI ECONOMY Leading AI event to host global stakeholders for cross-continental partnerships and the next chapter of the AI economy Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 12Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 1204/02/2025 11:0504/02/2025 11:05NEWS EDGE | February 2025 13 2024 first Teammate Raya launched After a successful round of funding, Teammates.ai has launched a category- defi ning platform that drastically transforms the way businesses operate. Previously known as Uktob.ai, the rebranded platform builds on its experience in artifi cial intelligence (AI) agents, enabling businesses to use AI to take on entire job functions through Autonomous AI Teammates. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the company. The rebranding to Teammates.ai coincides with a strategic shift to provide enterprise-grade AI solutions and an expanding collection of Teammates. The fi rst Teammate, Raya, was launched in 2024, focusing on customer service. Its capabilities include voice calling, inbox management and seamless software integration allowing it to eff ectively support every function of the role. Alongside Raya, the company is launching its second Teammate, specialised in Inside Sales. With superior language competencies and an Arabic user interface, every Teammate has leading AI capabilities that allow them to speak and understand over 50 languages, including every dialect of the Arabic language; a fi rst for the MENA region. Expressing his excitement over the launch, Kareem Ayyad, Founder and CEO of Teammates. ai, said: “Rebranding to Teammates.ai marks a defi ning moment in our journey to transform how businesses leverage AI. Raya and our newly launched Sales Teammate are just the beginning of a broader AI Workforce—designed to work alongside human teams. We’ve already seen how this approach cuts costs, amplifi es productivity, and empowers employees to focus on higher- impact challenges.” Prior to its rebranding, Teammates.ai has built a successful track record by partnering with fi ve leading governmental entities in the GCC. Notably, the company delivered the world’s largest Prompt Engineering Championship in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation, the Artifi cial Intelligence Offi ce, and the Ministry of Cabinet Aff airs—further demonstrating its leading role in the AI space. TEAMMATES.AI LAUNCHES NEXT- GENERATION AI WORKFORCE The rebranding to Teammates.ai coincides with a strategic shift to provide enterprise-grade AI solutions Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 13Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 1304/02/2025 11:0504/02/2025 11:05NEWS 14 EDGE | February 2025 2025 UN International Year of Quantum Science and Technology The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) and a global leader in scientifi c research, has announced a pioneering advancement in analogue quantum simulations. This breakthrough represents the fi rst-ever successful demonstration of learning large-scale quantum simulator dynamics from data – a technology poised to revolutionise industries worldwide. In a collaboration with Google AI Quantum, the University of Maryland, and Freie Universität Berlin, led by Dr. Ingo Roth, TII’s Quantum Research Center (QRC) developed advanced data-processing algorithms that deliver unmatched precision in understanding quantum systems. Analogue quantum simulators, the focal point of this research, are highly controlled laboratory quantum systems designed to replicate the behavior of complex quantum systems that are otherwise impossible to observe or calculate with conventional computing power. Studying quantum systems traditionally demands enormous computational resources, placing limits on what can be achieved with classical computers. Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, emphasised the transformative potential of this technology: “Quantum simulators allow us to peer into realms of scientifi c discovery that were previously inaccessible. While still in its early stages, this technology holds a huge promise for unlocking breakthroughs across sectors, from developing new materials to discovering life-saving pharmaceuticals and optimising energy systems.” Dr. Ingo Roth, Lead Scientist at TII’s Quantum Research Center, added: “This achievement demonstrates the power of collaboration and innovation in quantum science. By bridging experimental and theoretical approaches, we’ve taken a signifi cant step towards unlocking the full potential of analogue quantum simulations.” This milestone comes during the United Nations International Year of Quantum Science and Technology 2025, a global initiative highlighting the importance of quantum advancements in addressing some of humanity’s challenges. TII UNVEILS BREAKTHROUGH IN QUANTUM SIMULATIONS Collaboration with Google AI Quantum, the University of Maryland and Freie Universität Berlin Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 14Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 1404/02/2025 11:0604/02/2025 11:06NEWS EDGE | February 2025 15 64% firms to adopt multicloud within 3 years Nutanix, has announced the launch of its Multicloud Experts community (“MC Experts”) in EMEA. A bold initiative, MC Experts aims to create a platform for leading cloud experts to pool knowledge and resources while being able to lean on peers and specialists to empower customers to thrive in an increasingly complex multicloud world. Modern cloud projects are no longer confi ned to a single platform or provider. According to the 2024 Nutanix Enterprise Cloud Index (ECI) report, 64% of organisations are planning to adopt a multicloud strategy within the next three years. However, Nutanix understands that the complexities of multicloud require drawing expertise from a diverse array of cloud services, demanding the collaborative eff ort of specialists. To meet this demand, MC Experts will bring together a community of multicloud experts with diverse expertise and experience across leading industry solutions, spanning from private cloud to public cloud and the edge. “The creation of the MC Experts community underscores the importance of cross-platform expertise in today’s cloud environment and is a nod to the reality that no single provider can address every challenge in a multicloud landscape,” said Paulo Pereira, VP, Pre-Sales and Systems Engineering, at Nutanix. “By pooling knowledge and creating a collaborative space for learning, we are equipping businesses with the resources they need to thrive across multiple clouds.” The MC Experts community will be a dynamic group comprising cloud specialists strategically selected to ensure a wide range of expertise across platforms. These experts will participate in knowledge-sharing sessions, webinars, hands-on labs, and certifi cation opportunities, making it a truly interactive and engaged community. Each quarter, members of the MC Experts will be engaged with challenges developed to deepen their understanding and further their skills. Nutanix will create a space for the community to collaborate seamlessly with a dedicated Slack channel, discovery plans tailored to multicloud topics and participation in annual challenges. NUTANIX LAUNCHES MULTICLOUD EXPERTS COMMUNITY IN EMEA This will be a dynamic group comprising cloud specialists strategically selected to ensure a wide range of expertise across platforms Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 15Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 1504/02/2025 11:0604/02/2025 11:06NEWS 16 EDGE | February 2025 $1257M size of the AI market in 2025 Petromin Corp, a global leader in mobility solutions, has partnered with Gupshup, the leading conversational AI platform, to introduce PETROMINit!, a fi rst-of-its-kind advanced Customer Service AI Agent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The AI Agent leverages Generative AI capabilities on Gupshup Conversation Cloud to off er seamless and effi cient vehicle support in both Arabic and English. PETROMINit! is available on WhatsApp, off ering customers seamless and instant access to support through a familiar and convenient channel. By simply messaging on +966 9200 22776 in natural language, customers can instantly engage with the Generative AI-powered AI Agent. PETROMINit! leverages advanced large language models (LLMs) and natural language understanding to deliver remarkably human-like support interactions akin to speaking with a live automobile support specialist. “At Petromin Corp, we’re reimagining automotive customer service through the power of intelligent AI Agents. PETROMINit! isn’t just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic leap forward that demonstrates how autonomous AI can fundamentally transform customer engagement. Through our collaboration with Gupshup, we are proud to introduce a solution that redefi nes convenience for our customers and sets a new standard for automotive customer support in Saudi Arabia. The AI Agent saw strong early adoption, with nearly half of Petromin Corp’s WhatsApp users exploring the AI features in just the fi rst month of its launch. Customers can access suppor t for a comprehensive range of services including vehicle quick servicing from Petromin Express, Petromin Autocare, Petromin Autocare EV solutions, Petromin Autocare premium repair options, Petromin body & paint, Petromin Tristar, and loyalty points assistance. The PETROMINit! AI Agent makes it easier for customers to get support during urgent situations, such as a car breakdown. Instead of searching for the nearest service station, they can now conveniently get assistance by chatting on WhatsApp. SAUDI ARABIA GETS FIRST GEN AI- POWERED AUTOMOTIVE AGENT PETROMINit! is available on WhatsApp, off ering customers seamless and instant access to support Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 16Edge_Feb2025_12-17_News_13500892.indd 1604/02/2025 11:0604/02/2025 11:06PARTNER CONTENT EDGE | February 2025 17 2025 The year of value realisation following a year of learning (2023) and another of experimentation (2024) Business leaders have spent the past two years grappling with the impact of generative AI. Some industries moved quickly, while others took a more measured approach. If 2023 was about learning and 2024 about experimentation, 2025 will be the year of value realisation. Here are three key trends shaping AI’s role in business. AI IS THE DATA, AND DATA MAKES THE AI Many AI projects fail due to unclean or inaccurate data. Without good quality data, AI initiatives cannot succeed. Proof of concepts often fall short because they aren’t based on real data or given enough time for proper training. Businesses are shifting from proof-of-concept to proof-of-value, ensuring AI solves real problems. Transparency around data usage will also be key. Success isn’t just about access to data but ensuring it is clean, complete, and governed securely. AI search technology is helping integrate structured and unstructured data, making AI-driven decisions more eff ective. To realise AI’s full value, organisations must prioritise clean data, governance and a results- driven approach. As AI moves from hype to real impact, businesses must tackle data quality, governance and human-AI collaboration to unlock its full potential in 2025 AI & DATA FROM GOVERNANCE TO COLLABORATION: THE AI TRENDS DEFINING 2025 Words by Cathy Mauzaize, President, EMEA at ServiceNow SECURITY, RISK, AND GOVERNANCE BREAK INTO THE CEO AGENDA During the rise of digital transformation, IT teams struggled with unregulated technology use. AI adoption presents similar risks, from compliance issues to ineffi ciencies that demand signifi cant resources to fi x. As AI moves into mainstream business, governance is no longer just an IT concern. Algorithmic bias, data misuse, and lack of accountability can lead to regulatory penalties and erode trust. CEOs must now lead AI governance eff orts, ensuring responsible innovation, protecting brand reputation, and aligning AI initiatives with business strategy. Companies that embed AI ethics and governance into their culture will be better positioned for long-term success. EMBRACING HUMAN-AI COLLABORATION AI will not replace jobs but will change how people work. Employees don’t need to become AI experts but must learn to work alongside AI-powered tools. Rather than prioritising technical expertise alone, businesses will focus on developing AI- capable talent. The workforce will increasingly rely on intelligent assistants to enhance effi ciency and quality. The most valuable employees will be those who know how to collaborate with AI while bringing creativity, leadership and strategic thinking to the table. AI is a tool for augmentation, not competition and this shift will redefi ne the future of work. Leaders who focus on governance, data integrity, and AI collaboration will unlock AI’s full potential in 2025. Edge_Feb2025_17_Adv Servicemarket_13514999.indd 17Edge_Feb2025_17_Adv Servicemarket_13514999.indd 1704/02/2025 11:0704/02/2025 11:07PARTNER CONTENT 18 EDGE | February 2025 Cisco’s latest AI Readiness Index has revealed that 64% of organisations in the UAE have a strategy to deploy AI solutions. The report highlights that despite increasing urgency in deployment and investment, businesses in the UAE face challenges in adopting, Nearly all (99%) of UAE organisations are under pressure to implement AI, with CEOs leading the charge, Cisco’s latest report fi nds ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE UAE BUSINESSES FAST-TRACK AI ADOPTION AS CISCO HIGHLIGHTS LEADERSHIP-DRIVEN PUSH deploying, and fully leveraging AI. The Index is based on a double-blind survey of 7,985 senior business leaders from organisations with 500 or more employees across 30 markets, including UAE, who are responsible for AI integration and deployment within their organisations. Edge_Feb2025_18-19_Adv - Cisco_13514778.indd 18Edge_Feb2025_18-19_Adv - Cisco_13514778.indd 1804/02/2025 11:0804/02/2025 11:08PARTNER CONTENT EDGE | February 2025 19 34% of organisations plan to allocate more than 40% of their IT budget to AI investments in the next four to five years Organisations in the region need to prepare their workforce, existing data centres and cloud strategies to meet the AI requirements and harness its full potential Abdelilah Nejjari, Managing Director, Cisco in Gulf and Levant The Index is measured acr o ss six pillars: strategy, infrastructure, data, governance, talent and culture. The fi ndings showed that AI has become a cornerstone for business strategy, a n d t h e re i s a n increasing urgency among companies to adopt and deploy these technologies. In UAE, nearly all (99%) report an increased urgency to deploy AI, primarily driven by the CEO and leadership team. Nearly all (86%) companies say they only have 18 months to start demonstrating the impact of AI. More than half (64%) give it only 12 months. Abdelilah Nejjari, Managing Director, Cisco in Gulf and Levant, commented: “Our survey reveals that companies need to prioritise investments in infrastructure and talent to eff ectively navigate the complexities of AI deployment. Organisations in the region need to prepare their workforce, existing data centres and cloud strategies to meet the AI requirements and harness its full potential.” Businesses in the UAE are accelerating eff orts and increasing investments to overcome barriers. Notably, over a third (34%) of organisations plan to allocate more than 40% of their IT budget to AI investments in the next four to fi ve years, a signifi cant increase from 8% of companies who said they are allocating a similar portion of their IT budget to AI currently. Additionally, almost half (47%) of companies indicate that between 10% to 30% of their IT budget is allocated to AI deployments. AI investments focus on three strategic areas: cybersecurity (45%), IT infrastructure (39%), as well as data management (34%), and data analysis (33%). The top three outcomes they aim to achieve are improving the eff iciency of systems, processes, operations, and prof itabilit y; the ability to innovate and remain competitive; and growing revenue and market share for the business. However, over 40% of respondents report that the gains from their AI investments have not yet met expectations in augmenting, assisting, or automating current processes and operations. However, networks are yet to be equipped to meet AI workloads. There are gaps in compute, data centre network performance, and cybersecurity, amongst other areas. Only 14% of organisations have the necessary GPUs to meet current and future AI demands and only a third (31%) have the capabilities to protect data in AI models with end–to–end encryption, security audits, continuous monitoring, and instant threat response. Positive developments are underway as companies acknowledge the necessity of enhancing their readiness to eff ectively leverage AI. In the UAE, 54% say improving the scalability, f lexibility, and manageability of their IT infrastructure are top priorities, showing they are aware of the gaps that need to be addressed. Further, the Index sheds light on the lack of skilled talent, underscoring the critical need for skilled professionals to drive AI initiatives. Only 37% of UAE organisations claim their talent is at a high state of readiness to fully leverage AI, and 27% say their organisations lack in-house talent necessary for successful AI deployment. Edge_Feb2025_18-19_Adv - Cisco_13514778.indd 19Edge_Feb2025_18-19_Adv - Cisco_13514778.indd 1904/02/2025 11:0804/02/2025 11:08Next >