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talk to middle east entrepreneurs in date mena, Yusif HusseinData and AI Advisory Leader EY Middle Eastshared insights on AI adoption, the importance of data, and how businesses can leverage AI responsibly while preserving the human element in decision-making.
During the conversation, Hussein emphasized that while agent AI and autonomous systems are generating excitement, organizations need to approach AI adoption in stages. “The way I analyze AI today is in three main areas: either automating something very simple, building an AI workflow, or moving to an AI agent,” he said. He warned that as complexity increases, so do costs and risks. “You have to start with a problem and try to solve it with the simplest solution possible. If you can solve it with simple automation, great. If not, move on to AI workflows. If that’s not enough, start looking into AI agents and agential AI, because with AI agents, you’re having an agent make decisions for you. Are you ready for that?”
Mr. Hussein also emphasized the important role of the government. data In the success of AI. “One thing that business leaders consistently underestimate is data. You can build the most beautiful AI, but if your data is scattered, unstructured, or poorly managed, it will crumble like a weak house.” He divided data preparation into three layers: governance, integration, and cleansing. “Focus on data governance. Are you classifying your data correctly and sourcing it ethically? Second, consolidating it in one place and finally cleaning it. This is probably the tedious part of AI, but it’s the most important for long-term success.”
Hussain cited miscommunication in the boardroom, noting that organizations often blame technology when AI efforts fail. “A lot of people focus on technology and blame it when it’s not leveraged. Success depends on people, culture, and training.” He shared the example of Microsoft Copilot. “Many organizations are investing heavily in Copilot, but are they preparing their employees to use it effectively? An hour-long webinar is not enough. Teams need hands-on sessions to understand how to unlock real value. I like to compare this to the iPhone and Android. Both are great tools, but you need to know how to use them.”
Regarding the balance between humans and AI, Hussein emphasized the importance of focusing on what makes humans unique. “As machines get better at being machines, humans need to get better at being humans. If we continue to do repetitive tasks without applying strategy or emotion, AI will replace us. Now, more than ever, we need to double down on human skills like relationships, strategy, and face-to-face collaboration.”
When it comes to building AI teams in MENA, Hussain is looking beyond technical skills. “It’s all about mindset. Are you a creative problem solver? Cultural fit is important. And finally, communication. People who are technically great but can’t communicate their value will have limited impact.”
Hussein also offered advice for individuals researching AI. “Step away from work. Focus on life’s issues, like fitness, hobbies, passions, etc., and try applying AI to it. To research topics and streamline content creation, I started using AI agents to post on LinkedIn. The effort went from 4 hours to 15-20 minutes.”
Looking to the future, Hussein sees huge potential for AI in the Middle East. “Every leader I talk to wants to adopt and invest in AI. This region is attracting world-class talent and is becoming a hub for AI innovation. It will be a global frontrunner in the coming years.”
Finally, he gave a vivid analogy about the power of personal branding. “Imagine each person as an island in the Maldives. Build your own lighthouse. Share what you care about and what you wish you knew six or 12 months ago. People will notice. LinkedIn is a people platform, not a company platform. Engage others, support them, and focus on the hook of your posts. That’s 80% of success.”
Hussein’s insights highlight the delicate balance between leveraging AI to drive efficiency and innovation while nurturing human creativity, strategy and connection, a balance that EY Middle East continues to champion.
