Fast Company Middle East · 1 Oct, 13:51 · Business briefing

65% of UAE workers fear AI could make them replaceable, finds Workday

A recent Workday survey reveals that 65% of employees in the United Arab Emirates fear artificial intelligence may render their roles obsolete.

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The briefing

The story
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A recent Workday survey reveals that 65% of employees in the United Arab Emirates fear artificial intelligence may render their roles obsolete. Published by Fast Company Middle East, the report highlights significant workforce anxiety regarding technological displacement. This statistic underscores a growing disconnect between rapid AI adoption and employee confidence. Professionals across various sectors are concerned about job security as automation capabilities expand. The findings suggest an urgent need for organisational transparency and upskilling initiatives. Rather than viewing AI solely as a threat, the data indicates a critical moment for workers to reassess their value proposition. Understanding this sentiment is vital for navigating the evolving regional labour market effectively.

Employer demand for Artificial Intelligence skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

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This anxiety signals a shift where technical proficiency alone is insufficient. You must prioritise adaptability and complex problem-solving skills that AI cannot easily replicate. Focus on developing strong emotional intelligence and strategic thinking to complement automated tasks. Professionals in data-heavy roles should immediately upskill in AI literacy and data interpretation to leverage these tools rather than fear them. Identify processes in your workflow that can be augmented by AI to increase your efficiency and value. Engage with your organisation’s learning and development team to access relevant training. Do not wait for formal mandates; proactively demonstrate how you can integrate new technologies into your current responsibilities. Your career resilience now depends on your ability to collaborate with intelligent systems, positioning yourself as an indispensable human element in an automated workflow.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
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