Overcoming the challenges of Generative AI: strategies for middle Eastern Companies

Generative AI (GenAI) holds the promise of boosting efficiency and reducing costs, but its implementation comes with significant challenges. Among these are poor risk management and uncertainty around its commercial value. With the right approach, organizations in the Middle East can overcome these hurdles and fully harness the potential of this powerful technology.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries globally, the Middle East is emerging as a key player in this transformation. Both governments and businesses are eager to tap into AI’s vast potential, especially GenAI—a technology that creates new content, streamlines processes, and offers unprecedented productivity gains.

The challenges of scaling GenAI

However, despite its promise, scaling up GenAI has proven difficult. A Gartner report indicates that nearly 30% of GenAI projects will not move past the proof-of-concept stage by 2025. The main reasons include inadequate risk controls, unclear commercial value, poor data quality, and unforeseen costs.

In the Middle East, businesses looking to integrate GenAI face concerns over data privacy, regulatory compliance, a shortage of specialized talent, and high implementation costs. These barriers hinder the advancement of GenAI, even as the public and private sectors show increasing interest in adopting new technologies.

How to overcome the barriers

Pete Hall, Managing Director of EMEA at Ciena, suggests that to address data privacy and security concerns, companies must implement strong governance frameworks and train their staff on the specific risks associated with GenAI. By doing so, they can mitigate potential threats while maximizing the benefits of the technology.

Beyond training, establishing clear security policies and creating governance models to oversee GenAI usage are essential steps. Only with strong preparation and risk management can companies move toward effective implementation.

Education and awareness to maximize GenAI

To drive more efficient adoption, companies must invest in education. Specialized workshops and hands-on training sessions are crucial tools for organizations to understand GenAI’s real value. It’s also important to partner with industry experts and leaders to access webinars and events that provide the latest insights on best practices and trends.

Showcasing successful case studies that highlight how GenAI has optimized processes or improved real-time security is another effective strategy. This approach helps companies visualize the positive impact of the technology and understand how robust network infrastructure can support and enhance AI-driven solutions.

Successful models for Digital Transformation

The pressure to adopt GenAI is increasing in boardrooms and among investors. Companies like Ciena have implemented initiatives such as dedicated task forces that include legal and IT departments to address security and risk management concerns. Additionally, frequent reminders and pop-ups have been designed to keep staff aware of GenAI’s implications in their daily work.

This strategic approach fosters a culture of innovation, empowering teams to collaborate on digital projects and ensuring that GenAI solutions are implemented safely and effectively.

Acceder: Your partner in transforming with GenAI

At Acceder, we understand the unique challenges organizations face when implementing generative AI. Our team of specialists is here to guide your company through the entire process, from initial strategy to full-scale deployment. We focus on tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, mitigate risks, and deliver measurable results.