Survival Mode: How Middle East Companies Are Leveling Up for the Digital Age

PWC Report

Change is not coming—it is already here.

According to PwC's latest Middle East CEO Survey, 60 percent of regional business leaders believe their companies will not survive the next decade without significant transformation.

This is not just a statistic—it is a reality check.

AI and emerging technologies have become essential for reimagining and shaping the future of enterprise transformation. Beyond automating routine tasks, they empower organizations to uncover game-changing insights and redefine competitive advantages. Today’s leaders must foster a culture that embraces disruption, invests in new skills, and builds trust in technology-led decision making. The true power of AI lies not just in the tools themselves, but in reshaping organisational mindsets for sustainable growth and resilience.

Think about it: Ten years ago, did you imagine your local coffee shop would compete with global chains through mobile apps? Or that your neighborhood bank would face competition from fintech startups like Tabby or other fintech disruptors. This is exactly what's happening across the Middle East.

Three key shifts are reshaping our business landscape:

1.???? The AI Revolution Isn't Optional: Remember when having a website was a choice? Today, 70% of GCC CEOs believe AI will boost their profits within just 12 months. It's no longer about whether to adopt AI, but how quickly you can integrate it meaningfully into your business.

2.???? Sustainability: From Nice-to-Have to Must-Have With 79% of regional CEOs already investing in climate-friendly initiatives, sustainability isn't just about environmental responsibility - it's about business survival. Your customers, investors, and partners are watching.

3.???? Industry Lines Are Blurring ?:When a telecom company starts offering financial services, or a retailer becomes a tech company, you know the rules have changed. According to the survey, 43% of regional CEOs are already competing in new sectors.

In the next decade, every business will be different. The key question is: Will you be driving that change or reacting to it?

Leaders are no longer just managing companies; they are guiding organizations through an era of continuous transformation. The challenge is to adapt while continuing to deliver results in the present.

Strategic Priorities for the Future

• Assess your organization’s digital maturity and readiness
• Invest in AI and digital skills development
• Explore partnerships and collaborations to drive innovation

Organizations that take a proactive approach to transformation will define the future of business in the region.

How is your company preparing for this shift? Let’s continue the conversation.

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