AI Poised to Replace 17% of Jobs in Saudi Arabia Within Three Years

International consultants have issued a dire warning that AI, expected, risk, employment in Saudi Arabia within the next three years. Najla Najam, a seasoned business manager at an American consulting firm, shared this alarming prediction, underscoring the transformative impact AI is set to have on the Kingdom's workforce.

Why this matters: The rapid adoption of AI in Saudi Arabia has significant implications for the global economy, as it sets a precedent for other countries to follow suit. The rapid adoption of AI in Saudi Arabia has significant implications for the global economy, as it sets a precedent for other countries to follow suit. As AI continues to disrupt traditional job markets, it's crucial forgovernments and businesses to develop strategies that support workers in adapting to this new landscape.

The implications are particularly profound for those in creative and executive roles. Experts estimate that a staggering 80% of creative work and 53% of executive positions are atrisk of disruptiondue to AI. These figures paint a vivid portrait of the challenges that lie ahead for professionals across various industries in Saudi Arabia.

Najam emphasized the potential for AI to transform work methodologies and render certain roles obsolete, stating, "AI could change how people work and might even replace some jobs altogether. "This sentiment was echoed by Oliver, director overseeing Middle East affairs at a global consultancy firm, who said,"Given the anticipated changes on the horizon, it's conceivable that 17% of jobs within the Kingdom will be supplanted by AI within the next three years."

The demographic most at risk of displacement byemployment, expected, affected, aiappears to be individuals born from the 1990s to the early 21st century, as their occupations are particularly vulnerable to automation. This raises pressing questions about the future of work and the need for proactive measures to equip the workforce with the skills necessary to adapt to the evolving environment.

In response to these emerging challenges, organizations in Saudi Arabia are expected to prioritize training initiatives to upskill their employees. This is especially important in light of the fact that workers across the Middle East exhibit a heightened concern for productivity issues compared to their counterparts in other regions. By investing in comprehensive training programs, companies can help their workforce master the complexities of the AI-driven employment future.

The manufacturing sector, in particular, is expected to witness significant growth, with experts predicting a 10 to 30% boost over the next three years through the utilization of AI. This highlights the transformative potential of AI in driving efficiency and productivity gains across industries in the Kingdom.

As Saudi Arabia stands on the precipice of an AI-driven transformation, policymakers, businesses, and individuals must proactively address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Cultivating a culture of continuous learning, encouraging innovation, and investing in human capital development will be key for the Kingdom to harness the power of AI while mitigating its disruptive impact on the workforce.

The forecast of 17% job displacement by AI within the next three years is a wake-up call for Saudi Arabia. It highlights the rapidly evolving nature of work and the urgent need for proactive measures to ensure the workforce is equipped to thrive in the age of AI. By embracing change, investing in skills development, and promoting adaptability, the Kingdom can overcome the challenges ahead and position itself as a leader in the AI-driven economy.

Key Takeaways

• AI expected to displace 17% of jobs in Saudi Arabia within 3 years.
• 80% of creative work and 53% of executive roles at risk of disruption.
• Individuals born 1990s-2000s most at risk of job displacement.
• Manufacturing sector to see 10-30% growth through AI adoption.
• Upskilling and training crucial for workers to adapt to AI-driven economy.