PARIS: Cathay Pacific is working with Airbus to introduce “reduced crew” long-haul flights with a sole pilot in the cockpit much of the time, industry sources told Reuters.
The program, known within Airbus as Project Connect, aims to certify its A350 jet for single-pilot operations during high-altitude cruise, starting in 2025 on Cathay passenger flights, the sources said.
High hurdles remain on the path to international acceptance. Once cleared, longer flights would become possible with a pair of pilots alternating rest breaks, instead of the three or four currently needed to maintain at least two in the cockpit.
That promises savings for airlines, amid uncertainty over the post-pandemic economics of intercontinental flying. But it is likely to encounter resistance from pilots already hit by mass layoffs, and safety concerns about aircraft automation.
Lufthansa has also worked on the single-pilot program but currently has no plans to use it, a spokesman for the German carrier told Reuters.
Cathay Pacific Airways confirmed its involvement but said no decision had been made on eventual deployment.
“While we are engaging with Airbus in the development of the concept of reduced crew operations, we have not committed in any way to being the launch customer,” the Hong Kong carrier said.
Commercial implementation would first require extensive testing, regulatory approval and pilot training with “absolutely no compromise on safety,” Cathay said.
“The appropriateness and effectiveness of any such rollout as well as (the) overall cost-benefit analysis (will) ultimately depend on how the pandemic plays out.”
It added: “Having said that, we will continue to engage with Airbus and to support development of the concept.”
Airbus has previously disclosed plans to add single-pilot capability to the A350, but the airlines’ participation had not been reported. Work has resumed after the COVID-19 crisis paused the program, Chief Test Pilot Christophe Cail said.
“We’ve proven over decades we can enhance safety by putting the latest technology in aircraft,” Cail told Reuters, declining to identify project partners. “As for any design evolution, we are working with airlines.”
Safe deployment will require constant monitoring of the solo pilot’s alertness and vital signs by on-board systems, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has said.
If the flight encounters a problem or the pilot flying is incapacitated, the resting copilot can be summoned within minutes. Both remain in the cockpit for take-off and landing.
“Typically on long-haul flights when you’re at cruise altitude there’s very little happening in the cockpit,” EASA chief Patrick Ky told a German press briefing in January.
“It makes sense to say OK, instead of having two in the cockpit, we can have one in the cockpit, the other one taking a rest, provided we’re implementing technical solutions which make sure that if the single one falls asleep or has any problem, there won’t be any unsafe conditions.”
Pilot groups have voiced alarm.
“We struggle to understand the rationale,” said Otjan de Bruijn, head of the European Cockpit Association representing EU pilots.
Invoking the 737 MAX crisis, which exposed Boeing’s inappropriate links to US regulators, De Bruijn said the program’s cost-cutting approach “could lead to higher risks.”
Single-pilot operations, currently limited to planes with up to nine passengers, would need backing from UN aviation body ICAO and countries whose airspace they cross. China’s support is key to any Cathay deployment.
EASA plans consultations this year and certification work in 2022, while acknowledging “significant risk” to the 2025 launch date, a spokesman said.
In a closed-door industry briefing this year, the agency suggested reduced-crew flights would begin with a single operator, according to notes of the meeting reviewed by Reuters.
Airbus has designed an A350 autopilot upgrade and flight warning system changes to help a lone pilot manage failures, sources close to the project said. Use of a specially designed unizex toilet would be possible during the shift, in coordination with air traffic control.
The mid-sized plane is suitable because of its “emergency descent” feature that quickly reduces altitude without pilot input in the event of cabin depressurization.
Proponents suggest single-pilot operations may be accepted by a flying public used to crew leaving the cockpit for bathroom breaks. They also point to higher error rates from human pilots than automated systems.
Both arguments miss the point, according to a source close to Lufthansa — who said the airline’s executives were advised last year that the program could not meet safety goals.
Flying solo for hours is a “completely different story,” the source said, citing the 2009 AF447 disaster as an example of malfunctions occurring in cruise. The Air France A330’s copilots lost control after its speed sensors failed over the Atlantic, while the captain was resting.
“Airbus would have had to make sure every situation can be handled autonomously without any pilot input for 15 minutes,” the source said. “And that couldn’t be guaranteed.”
Lufthansa has not withdrawn from Project Connect and remains involved as an adviser, its spokesman said.
While the airline has no plans to deploy single-pilot operations, he added, “the suggestion that Lufthansa was an essential part of the project and then pulled back is not true.”
Single-pilot capability would add an A350 sales argument, experts say, and rival Boeing lacks an equivalent model with sufficient automation.
Filippo Tomasello, a former EASA official, said the payroll and accommodation savings for long-haul crew would not be lost on airlines.
“COVID may end up accelerating this evolution because it’s putting tremendous economic pressure on aviation,” Tomasello predicted.
“If EASA certifies this solution, airlines will use it.”
Cathay working with Airbus on single-pilot system for long-haul flights
https://arab.news/rjvd8
Cathay working with Airbus on single-pilot system for long-haul flights
- Once cleared, longer flights would become possible with a pair of pilots alternating rest breaks, instead of the three or four currently needed to maintain at least two in the cockpit
GCC countries should strengthen supply chain to ensure industrial growth: Oliver Wyman
RIYADH: Countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council region should develop supply chain resilience strategies as they embark on large-scale industrialization of their economies, a report said.
According to management consulting company Oliver Wyman, current risk levels in the logistics sector need to be mitigated, especially for countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE which depend on high-criticality products such as transformers and minerals which are crucial for industrial growth.
“In Saudi Arabia, 75 percent of transformer imports originate from only three countries. Any potential disruption in transformer supply could significantly impact several sectors such as power, manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare,” the report said.
It added that logistical issues could impact power supply, leading to decreased industrial productivity, infrastructure vulnerabilities in systems that require constant energy supply, and economic instability.
“As GCC countries scale up their economic diversification plans, including their industrial sectors, it is vital that they redouble initiatives to increase supply chain resilience to ensure the smooth functioning of all sectors and aspects of society in the event of unexpected upheavals in the supply chain,” said Frederic Ozeir, partner and head of Automotive and Manufacturing Industries, India, Middle East and Africa region at Oliver Wyman.
The vitality of supply chain resilience
Oliver Wyman noted that vulnerabilities in global supply chains came under greater scrutiny in recent years following the pandemic and numerous climate-change-induced natural disasters, in addition to cybersecurity threats, logistics challenges, and geopolitical issues.
During these years, industries across the spectrum have been forced to grapple with production delays, shortages, and an increase in prices, as well as growing demand and unexpected bottlenecks, which have highlighted the critical importance of resilient logistical chains.
“For example, of all the electrical machinery and equipment imported to both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, 60 percent and 65 percent, respectively, are imported from just three countries. Similarly, for excavation machinery and valves, Saudi Arabia and the UAE import 50 percent and 55 percent of the total from three countries,” said Oliver Wyman.
The US-based firm added that various sectors are directly dependent on the industrial supply chain, and any disruptions could have a domino effect which will amplify vulnerabilities in vital sectors that are important for health, safety, and security.
Highlighting the necessity to maintain a functional supply chain, the report noted that the healthcare industry relies on the timely delivery of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals, while the power sector hinges on a steady inflow of critical machinery and components, such as turbines, generators, and transformers.
Moreover, GCC countries are heavily reliant on desalination machinery such as membranes, pumps, and valves because desalination is the source of most of the urban water in the region.
Saudi Arabia leading the region to ensure supply chain resilience
Oliver Wyman, in its report, also lauded Saudi Arabia’s efforts to ensure a healthy logistics sector in the Kingdom, as well as the whole region.
“In 2022, KSA launched the Global Supply Chain Resilience Initiative as part of its National Investment Strategy. This aims to position the Kingdom as a location of choice for leading global industrial companies, attracting investments in supply chains in order to mitigate the impact of global disruptions,” said the report.
The study added that the UAE is also focussing on improving food supply chains through various programs such as those that support local and sustainable food production, as well as by establishing new logistics hubs and deploying cutting-edge technological solutions.
Key actions to bolster supply chain resilience in the GCC
According to the report, governments in the GCC region should develop supply chain resilience strategies that seamlessly align with their national industrialization programs.
Moreover, such strategies should be supported by a set of enablers covering governance, private sector involvement, capabilities, and technology.
Oliver Wyman also underscored the necessity of having a collaborative governance framework between different countries to strengthen the supply chain in the Middle East region.
“GCC ministries of industry and mining can work with other ministries, especially those of vital sectors to ensure supply chain resilience. As an example, a GCC Ministry of Industry that collaborates with its counterpart in the Ministry of Health would be able to better develop appropriate actions for ensuring resilience of the supply chain of medical devices,” said the report.
The report also added that GCC governments should leverage the private sector as a crucial partner in their supply chain strategies.
According to the report, countries in the region can ensure supply chain durability by incentivizing logistical resilience initiatives among the private sector, and implementing inspection and corrective actions.
Moreover, the consulting firm added that GCC countries should establish specialized teams within their ministries of industry, comprising professionals with expertise in risk assessment and management, logistics operations, data analytics, and technology to build up the logistics network.
“Various capabilities are also required across the industrial sector, such as risk assessment and management, advanced technology integration and utilization, data analytics and business continuity planning, cybersecurity, and collaboration and information sharing,” the report added.
The study highlighted that nations in the region should also encourage the adoption of technology through advanced manufacturing policies that will drive the use of 3D printing, robotics, augmented reality, and automation.
Industrial cybersecurity requirements should also be considered given the connectivity and data sharing within factories, driven by automation and the Internet of Things, the consulting firm added.
Oliver Wyman noted that GCC countries should adopt a holistic approach that combines localization with other supply chain resilience levers to safeguard the industrial growth of these nations.
“Achieving supply chain resilience in the industrial sector is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. The levers deployed to fortify supply chains, such as localization, shoring, and partnerships, must be applied to the supply chain components of products with high criticality and risk,” Ozeir.
The study concluded that supply chain resilience is not just a choice for GCC nations, but a necessity, and one that will guarantee the sustainability of their burgeoning and all-important industrial sectors.
Future Hospitality Summit to shine spotlight on Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism industry
RIYADH: More than 1,200 investors from across the world will descend on Riyadh at the end of April for what is expected to be the biggest Future Hospitality Summit ever seen in Saudi Arabia.
The event - set to be held at Al Faisaliah Hotel from April 29 to May 1 – will focus on sustainable tourism and technology-driven hospitality under the theme, “Invest in Tomorrow: Today, Together.”
Industry leaders will discuss sustainable development, investment prospects, entrepreneurship, and human capital, as well as gain insights into the continued expansion of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
The upcoming three-day conference, which will feature more than 150 speakers, marks the seventh industry event for the Saudi market hosted by The Bench, a British business events firm.
Jonathan Worsley, chairman of the company, said: “The objectives of FHS Saudi Arabia are strategically aligned with Vision 2030, and our carefully curated program will focus on the development and sustainable growth of the hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia, the adoption of tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the sector, as well as investment and job creation opportunities.”
It will emphasize strategies to foster the growth of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector, positioning it as a key driver of the Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts.
Additionally, it will facilitate collaboration in the tourism industry by spotlighting its potential and opportunities for partnerships.
Day 1
The first morning of the conference will be exclusively dedicated to the Global Restaurant Investment Forum, exploring Riyadh’s growing dining culture through main-stage presentations, case studies, and panel discussions.
Founded in 2015, GRIF has been a three-day conference held in Dubai and Amsterdam. This year it will be incorporated at FHS Saudi Arabia. It is mainly dedicated to investors who want to meet owners of restaurant concepts, operators and franchisors looking for growth, equity, or partners.
GRIF Culinary Tours of game-changing restaurant concepts in the culinary landscape in Saudi Arabia will take place again, as well as the Startup Den – where entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of investor judges.
The most recent speakers who have confirmed their participation include Martin Raymond, who serves as the co-founder of the Future Laboratory and holds the position of editor-in-chief at LS:N Global. Christopher Sanderson, also a co-founder of the Future Laboratory, will be joining him.
Additionally, Mohammed Jawa, the founder and chairman of MJS Holding, Faisal Shaker, co-founder and CEO of Modern Food Company, and Nawal AlKhalawi, the founder and CEO of Asfar Experience, will address attendees.
The programme will kick off in the afternoon on April 29 with the FHS Intelligence Talks, moderated by Fritz Dickamp, managing director of Studio 49.
Topics include “The Future of Wellness – New Data on Wellness Travel,” moderated by Aradhana Khowala, CEO and founder of Aptamind Partners, in conversation with Susie Ellis, chair and CEO at Global Wellness Institute and Global Wellness Summit, and “The Hotel of the Future” presented by Turab Saleem, partner and head of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Advisory at Knight Frank Middle East and North Africa.
“We are offering delegates opportunities to immerse themselves in the dynamic essence of Saudi Arabia’s market. Our enriched program encompasses an array of engaging presentations, short-but-powerful ‘10X Talks’, multifaceted panel discussions, fireside chats, case studies, and captivating site tours,” Worsley said.
He added: “Furthermore, the event is peppered with ample networking opportunities over three days, all carefully curated to foster an environment of learning, dialogue, exploration, and meaningful connections.”
Day 2
On the second day, the conference will kick off with welcome remarks by Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid, secretary general of the King Faisal Foundation, and chairman of the board of Al Khozama.
Plenary sessions will cover a wide range of topics including “Hospitality Investment Opportunities in Saudi Arabia in Alignment with Vision 2030” presented by Mahmoud Abdulhadi, deputy minister of Destination Enablement at the Ministry of Tourism.
A panel discussion on “A Blueprint for Successful Market Entry and Investment,” will be moderated by Edie Rodriquez, a Saudi Tourism Authority board member, with panelists Qusai Al-Fakhri, CEO of Tourism Development Fund, Fahad bin Mushayt, CEO of ASFAR, and Guy Hutchinson, president of Hilton MEA.
Also appearing will be Haitham Mattar, a special advisor to UN Tourism and managing director MEA and South West Asia at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
In addition, there will be a case study on “Public and Private Sector Collaboration to Accelerate Lifestyle Developments and Promote New Destinations,” moderated by Mohammed Islam, host and founder of the Mo Show Podcast Saudi Arabia, as well as a panel on “Maximising Financial Resilience Through Multi-asset Allocation” chaired by Matthew Martin, Saudi Arabia bureau chief at Bloomberg.
Moreover, sustainable hospitality investment and development will take center stage in the FHS program, alongside a significant emphasis on technology.
Industry leaders will delve into discussions on the future of artificial intelligence and the metaverse in hospitality, explore the convergence of AI, IT, and human interaction for enhancing guest experiences, and offer valuable insights on tech stack investment strategies for both owners and operators.
A fresh addition to FHS Saudi Arabia this year is the “Destination Tomorrow: Unveiling of Investment Opportunities” platform, designed to highlight innovative and emerging locations and attractions within the Kingdom’s hospitality and tourism sector.
Its primary goal is to facilitate connections between project developers, entrepreneurs, visionaries, investors, and other essential stakeholders.
Another inaugural event at this year’s FHS is the Speakers Corner, offering a distinctive chance for attendees to share personal narratives of overcoming challenges and achieving success in the industry.
Startup Den
The highly anticipated Startup Den returns this year, following its success at FHS Saudi Arabia 2023.
The panel of judges for this year include Prince Saud Al-Saud, executive director of TDF Grow, Salma Arafa, an innovation expert at UN Tourism, and Maya Ayoub, the founder and CEO of District Twelve and also country director of Saudi Arabia Women in Tech.
“The Bench is passionate about supporting start-ups and providing an opportunity for entrepreneurs to pitch their business to an expert panel of judges and investors,” Worsely said, adding: “This year, 10 finalists will take to the stage to present their business concept in what is set to be another thrilling competition.”
FHS Saudi Arabia is placing a greater emphasis on female representation than ever before, as a testament to The Bench’s dedication to empowering women in the hospitality industry and acknowledging their role within the sector.
“Women’s contribution to the workforce has been at the helm of the historic growth and development we witness today in the region. Our unique campaign seeks to inspire Saudi executive women, champion gender diversity in hospitality, and highlight the pivotal role females play in this ever-growing sector,” Tanja Millner, production director at The Bench, said.
She added: “We are delighted to introduce FHS Women Power, an initiative focused on facilitating and empowering Saudi national women working in the hospitality sector with complimentary tickets to FHS Saudi Arabia.
Last year, FHS Saudi Arabia welcomed over 1,100 delegates and featured 150 speakers from over 35 countries with 71 sponsors and partners.
Oil Updates – prices surge 3% on reports of Israeli strikes on Iran
LONDON: Oil prices jumped $3 a barrel on Friday in reaction to reports that Israeli missiles had struck a site in Iran, sparking concerns that Middle East oil supply could be disrupted.
The benchmark contracts surged more than $3 then eased slightly. At 5:00 a.m. Saudi time, Brent futures were up $2.63, or 3 percent, to $89.74 a barrel.
The most active US West Texas Intermediate contract climbed $2.56, or 3.1 percent, to $84.66 per barrel.
US news outlet ABC News cited a US official as saying that Israeli missiles had hit a site in Iran.
Iran’s Fars news agency said explosions were heard at an airport in the Iranian city of Isafahan but the cause was not immediately known. Several flights were diverted over Iranian airspace, CNN reported.
“If these reports turn out to be true, fears over further escalation will only grow, as well as concerns that we are potentially moving closer toward a situation where oil supply risks lead to actual supply disruptions,” Warren Patterson, head of commodities strategy at ING, said in a note.
The reports have sparked worry that Israel has responded to Iran’s drone and missile attack of last weekend, Patterson said.
Last weekend Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles in a retaliatory strike after a suspected Israeli strike on its embassy compound in Syria. Most of the drones and missiles were downed before reaching Israeli territory, with minimal damage and casualties.
Investors have been closely monitoring Israel’s reaction to the April 13 Iranian drone attacks. The geopolitical risk premium in oil prices had been unwinding this week on the perception that any Israeli retaliation to Iran’s attack would be moderated by international pressure.
In global crude oil supply, Venezuela lost a key US license allowing the OPEC member to export oil to markets globally. The US also announced sanctions on Iran, another OPEC member, targeting its unmanned aerial vehicle after the country’s drone strike on Israel last weekend.
The sanctions on Iran, however, exclude its oil industry.
Saudi Arabia’s AI adoption ignites technological advancement and economic growth
- Adoption of AI will help foster a knowledge-based economy and equip Saudi youth with skills for the digital age
- Key initiatives, include the National Strategy for Data and AI, aim to establish Saudi Arabia as a global AI leader by 2030
RIYADH: As artificial intelligence gains global attention and becomes a buzzword, Saudi Arabia is positioned for accelerated adoption to enhance efficiency across its industries.
Over the years, AI has evolved into a transformative technology revolutionizing numerous industries and domains. Its development and adoption across sectors have spurred significant advancements, already reshaping how people live and work globally.
According to a recent report by the professional services firm PwC, the projected economic impact of AI in the Middle East by 2030 is $320 billion, with an estimated $135.2 billion attributed to Saudi Arabia.
The report also highlights an annual growth rate in AI contribution ranging between 20 percent and 34 percent across the region, with the UAE experiencing the fastest growth, followed by Saudi Arabia.
“Such growth and demand for AI demonstrated that the impact on industries can be substantial and wide-ranging both in Saudi Arabia and the wider region,” said Slava Bogdan, CEO & co-founder at Flowwow, to Arab News.
Flowwow, a global gifting marketplace, simplifies gift-giving and connects local brands with customers. It hosts over 14,000 local brands from 1,000 cities and operates in over 30 countries, including the UAE, Spain, the UK, and Brazil.
“Whether it’s hospitality, manufacturing, telecommunication, or business technologies, where Flowwow sits, I could say that AI solutions, firstly, could automate repetitive tasks, allowing employees to focus on more strategic and creative work, especially in data analysis, customer service, and marketing,” Bogdan said.
The CEO further explained how the firm’s marketers frequently utilize AI to target audiences, enhance creatives, or conduct competitive analysis, particularly in global markets like the Middle East and North Africa. This reduces decision-making time and allows for more strategic tasks that necessitate a tailored approach.
“Moreover, AI algorithms can analyze large amounts of data to identify patterns and trends, helping businesses make more informed decisions,” Bogdan explained.
“This attribute can lead to better forecasting, resource allocation, and risk management, especially in the financial sector, having had 25 percent of all regional AI investments,” he added.
Speaking to Arab News, Brahim Laaidi, partner at Bain & Co., emphasized that AI adoption in sectors like energy and healthcare aids “the Kingdom’s economic diversification and fosters a knowledge-based economy, enhancing efficiency and driving growth.”
Moreover, AI is recognized for enhancing customer experience and reducing costs for firms in various ways.
DID YOU KNOW?
• Saudi Arabia was one of the first nations to utilize data and artificial intelligence technologies to achieve its Vision 2030 goals.
• There are five prominent types of AI: machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, speech recognition and robots.
• The Saudi Data and AI Authority has created AI ethics principles in accordance with the Kingdom’s commitment to human rights.
• SDAIA estimates SR412.5 billion ($109.96 billion) in global spending on AI by 2024 end.
“AI chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 customer support, reducing costs. Multiple Saudi firms and banks use chatbots for customer service,” highlighted Laaidi.
He also illustrated how AI analyzes customer behavior to create personalized experiences, citing examples like Netflix and Spotify, which utilize AI to tailor content based on user preferences and listening habits.
Laaidi also highlighted how “AI facilitates segmentation based on behavior and profitability for targeted marketing. Coca-Cola utilizes AI for consumer segmentation.”
“In a nutshell, for most enterprises, the focus remains on leveraging narrow or vertical AI solutions to enhance specific business processes, improve customer experiences, or optimize operations,” he added.
According to Jad Haddad, head of Digital IMEA at management consulting firm Oliver Wyman, AI essentially democratizes access to intelligence, making it cheaper and more widely available.
This can generate significant efficiencies by augmenting employee capabilities, enabling them to complete tasks faster, and automating certain processes without human intervention.
Oliver Wyman estimates that up to 35 percent of tasks globally may be augmented or automated by AI in the next three years.
“In Saudi Arabia, considering the current economic structure, Oliver Wyman estimates that up to 17 percent of tasks may be affected within that time frame,” Haddad told Arab News.
AI projects and employment
It is evident that the Kingdom has been significantly investing in AI in recent years.
Key initiatives, according to Laaidi, include the National Strategy for Data and AI, aiming to establish Saudi Arabia as a global AI leader by 2030. Additionally, Neom, a planned smart city, is poised to leverage AI in urban planning and environmental management.
“The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority was established in 2020 to regulate AI development, and Tonomous collaborates with global tech leaders to enhance the city’s projects,” he added.
Laaidi continued by stating that AI and Robotics Centers, formed through partnerships with universities and international entities, are advancing AI in the Kingdom. From a technology industry perspective, it offers diverse applications and significant benefits.
According to Cristina Carranza, global head of business development at GGTech Entertainment, AI stands as a powerful tool with vast potential to enhance operational efficiency across various domains.
“We use AI selectively, focusing on specific areas where it can augment human skills and improve processes,” Carranza told Arab News.
She gives examples of how AI algorithms are utilized to analyze player data and preferences, enabling them to tailor game experiences and enhance player engagement. “In addition, AI-driven predictive analytics help us anticipate market trends and make informed decisions.”
However, Carranza emphasized the importance of acknowledging that while AI is embraced as a tool for progress, there is a recognition of the necessity of human oversight and control.
“We believe in a symbiotic relationship between humans and AI, where the technology enhances our capabilities but is always subject to human direction and control,” she added,
New dimensions
From GGTech Entertainment’s perspective, AI opens up exciting new dimensions in gaming and entertainment.
Carranza revealed that one significant area involves the optimization of game design processes, where AI algorithms analyze player feedback and behavior data to inform the creation of more engaging and immersive gaming experiences.
“Additionally, AI-powered tools enhance player interaction through personalized recommendations and real-time assistance, fostering deeper engagement and loyalty,” she explained.
The global head further addressed how AI-driven analytics offer valuable insights into player behavior and market trends, empowering GGTech to make data-driven decisions and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
Bridging skill gaps
The Kingdom’s journey to become an AI leader involves challenges encompassing ethical and legal aspects, data availability and quality, as well as skill gaps, infrastructure requirements, public trust, and the need for international collaborations.
“To navigate these dilemmas, the SDAIA and the National Data Management Office have been established to construct ethical guidelines and improve data governance,” Laaidi explained.
Similarly, the National Cybersecurity Authority continues to safeguard Saudi Arabia's digital infrastructure, including AI systems.
Laaidi emphasized Saudi Arabia’s prioritization of STEM education and training to bridge skill gaps, citing initiatives like the Prince Mohammed bin Salman College of Cyber Security aimed at fostering local talent in AI-related fields.
He highlighted the importance of focusing on STEM disciplines for developing a workforce equipped with the necessary skills for an AI-driven future.
Opinion
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“Substantial investments are being made in infrastructure, with emphasis on high-performance computing and cloud computing capabilities to support AI development and deployment. Building public trust is also a key venture for the Kingdom,” the partner stressed.
In addition, the Kingdom seeks international collaborations with leading AI research entities worldwide to expedite AI capabilities. “By addressing these challenges strategically, Saudi Arabia aims to create a conducive environment for AI development and adoption,” he emphasized.
From a technological perspective, the adoption of AI can present challenges in navigating ethical considerations and ensuring human control.
“At GGTech, we recognize the importance of maintaining human oversight and ethical standards while leveraging AI technologies. To address this challenge, we prioritize transparency and accountability in our AI algorithms and processes, ensuring they are aligned with our values and ethical guidelines,” Carranza described.
She further added that they invest in ongoing training and education for team members to enhance their understanding of AI and its implications, enabling them to make informed decisions and mitigate potential risks.
Reskilling Saudi workforce
Undoubtedly, marketers and creative leaders should prepare for the changes in their professional field resulting from AI adoption.
Bogdan explained that one of the crucial skills is the ability to ask AI the right questions and write clear prompts. He emphasized that it is necessary to understand, at least at a basic level, how AI algorithms work.
“At Flowwow, we acquaint employees with the different instruments to make AI a helpful assistant that allows us to analyze competitors’ websites, fact-check and edit texts, test tasks, and answers,” he continued.
The CEO highlighted that as the Kingdom invests resources to integrate AI into every sector, it creates more opportunities for entrepreneurs to establish their businesses and startups equipped with AI tools.
“Hence, apps and services developed with AI solutions will be on the edge. In this case, product managers and programmers should gain a thorough understanding of machine learning to create up-to-date apps,” Bogdan highlighted.
The CEO stressed that it will mostly be up to companies to invest in continuous learning and upskilling through educational short courses for their workers. “This investment is crucial to ensure that the workforce remains competitive and competent in leveraging advancements in AI effectively.”
Saudi Vision 2030
AI is a driving force behind Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, fueling economic diversification, smart cities, and public service transformation.
According to Laaidi, “AI boosts innovation across non-oil sectors, enables intelligent urban planning in projects like NEOM, and promotes Industry 4.0 through automation and predictive maintenance.”
“AI also improves government services via chatbots, automation, and analytics. In healthcare, AI enhances medical imaging, drug discovery, and personalized medicine,” he highlighted.
On top of that, Laaidi emphasized how AI educational tools prepare the workforce and optimize resource allocation, while support for clean energy promotes sustainability.
“Vision 2030 powered by AI seamlessly connects economic domains, accelerating progress and innovation across the Kingdom,” he affirmed.
On another note, GGTech Entertainment's use of AI aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by driving innovation, promoting economic diversification, and empowering Saudi youth with advanced skills and capabilities, according to the firm's global head.
“One way AI contributes to this vision is by enhancing gaming experiences and promoting the Kingdom as a global hub for entertainment and technology,” said Carranza.
By utilizing AI-powered tools for game design, player interaction, and analytics, GGTech Entertainment is delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences that showcase Saudi Arabia’s technological prowess and creativity to a global audience, she emphasized.
“In addition, the use of AI creates opportunities for job creation and economic growth in the Kingdom. As GGTech expands its AI capabilities, it is investing in the development of a skilled workforce with expertise in AI technologies and data analytics,” the company’s global head said.
She concluded by highlighting how this not only aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to foster a knowledge-based economy but also equips Saudi youth with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age.
ACWA Power, IRENA join hands to accelerate global renewable energy transition
RIYADH: In a bid to add impetus to the adoption of clean energy sources worldwide, Saudi utility firm ACWA Power has signed a deal with the International Renewable Energy Agency, said a press release issued on Thursday.
The Saudi-listed firm said that the partnership aligns with its mission to provide sustainable energy solutions and seeks to accelerate the adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy across the globe.
ACWA Power will work closely with IRENA to share crucial insights on infrastructure investment in renewable energy, green hydrogen advancement, solar energy, smart grids, and the intersection of energy and water, the press release said.
The Saudi-listed company also announced its participation in various IRENA initiatives, such as Green Hydrogen, Collaborative Frameworks, Project Facilitation, the Alliance for Industry Decarbonization, the Utilities for Net-Zero Alliance, and the Coalition for Action.
As per the deal, ACWA Power and IRENA will investigate avenues to mobilize finance and investment for renewable energy projects, while also supporting infrastructure for the development, storage, distribution, transmission, and consumption of renewables.
Moreover, collaborative workshops and seminars will be arranged to exchange best practices, enhance skills, and promote awareness of the energy transition among youth, professionals, and the public using IRENA’s platforms and programs.
ACWA Power CEO Marco Arcelli said the partnership with IRENA marks a significant milestone in his company’s journey toward a sustainable energy future.
“By combining our strengths and resources, we are prepared to drive meaningful change and accelerate the transition to renewable energy on a global scale,” he said.
The CEO added that through collaborative partnerships and innovative solutions, ACWA Power remains committed to advancing the widespread adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy, shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.
IRENA Director General Francesco La Camera commented: “We have less than a decade left to secure a fighting chance for a 1.5°C world. Accelerating the renewable-based energy transition needs industry leaders and this deal between IRENA and ACWA Power stands for the growing commitment of global industry to act on decarbonization.”
He added: “We need to act together to accelerate the sustainable use of renewables and green hydrogen across the globe.”
