SAS Showcases AI-Powered Solutions at GITEX 2024: A New Era for Finance, Government, and Beyond

As the world increasingly embraces digital transformation, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has never been more critical. At the forefront of this revolution is SAS, a global leader in analytics with nearly five decades of experience. With GITEX 2024 on the horizon, SAS is set to unveil its latest AI-powered solutions tailored for various sectors, including finance, government, and more. Alexander Tikhonov, the Regional Director for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) at SAS, shares insights into the company’s strategy and the growing significance of AI in the region.

A Strategic Presence in the META Region

Tikhonov oversees operations in one of SAS’s most diverse regions, which encompasses nearly 100 countries, including multiple subsidiaries in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and South Africa. “We’re proud to have our regional headquarters in the UAE, which positions us at the heart of the digital transformation journey in the Middle East,” he stated. This strategic location allows SAS to engage closely with local governments and businesses, helping them navigate the complexities of digitalization.

Transformative AI Solutions at GITEX

GITEX serves as a vital platform for SAS to introduce its cutting-edge tools and AI-powered use cases to the market. Tikhonov emphasized the importance of showcasing both technological advancements and practical applications. “At GITEX, we want to demonstrate new tools from our cloud-based platform, which integrates AI and machine learning capabilities. These tools are designed to help customers across industries automate and optimize their operations,” he explained.

SAS’s focus spans several key industries, including finance, government, energy, utilities, education, and retail. “We have specific use cases tailored to each sector,” Tikhonov noted. “Our goal is to help organizations streamline processes and make more informed decisions, which, in turn, leads to better outcomes for citizens, savings for governments, and increased revenues for commercial enterprises.”

AI and Machine Learning: The Future of Digital Transformation

AI is not just a trend; it is at the core of global digital transformation efforts. Tikhonov pointed out that both governments and companies are recognizing the potential of AI. “Artificial intelligence is the biggest agenda right now for the entire world,” he remarked. “Countries are embracing digitalization strategies centered on AI and machine learning, which allow organizations to analyze data more effectively, predict outcomes, and enhance decision-making.”

One of the most exciting developments in this space is generative AI, which is set to be a central theme for SAS at GITEX 2024. Tikhonov explained how SAS’s solutions harness the power of generative AI to create artificial datasets for testing and improving predictive models. “Generative AI enables us to test data in innovative ways, compare results, and ultimately make even better forecasts,” he said.

Addressing Ethical Concerns with AI

As AI technologies evolve, so do concerns surrounding data privacy and ethics. Tikhonov acknowledged the importance of establishing regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible AI deployment. “Governments are prioritizing the implementation of legal frameworks to properly manage AI. At SAS, we invest heavily in ensuring that our AI solutions are compliant with regulations and align with the concept of trustworthy AI,” he emphasized. This commitment to ethical AI is crucial for building trust among users and stakeholders.

Looking Ahead: AI’s Role in 2025 and Beyond

Looking towards 2025, Tikhonov believes that AI will continue to dominate the technology landscape, with generative AI playing a pivotal role. “We are still in the early stages of generative AI adoption, but it’s clear that this technology will shape the future of industries across the board. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this transformation,” he said. The potential applications of generative AI are vast, ranging from enhancing customer experiences to optimizing supply chains.

A Platform for Collaboration

SAS’s presence at GITEX 2024 promises to inspire and drive innovation across a wide array of industries. Tikhonov expressed gratitude to the UAE government for providing a platform like GITEX for global technology leaders to collaborate and innovate. “GITEX is an incredible opportunity for us to meet customers, partners, and industry peers. It’s a place where we can work together to support the UAE’s strategic vision for the future,” he stated.

In conclusion, as SAS prepares for GITEX 2024, the company is not just showcasing its AI-powered solutions; it is also paving the way for a future where technology and ethics go hand in hand. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, SAS is poised to play a significant role in the digital transformation journey of the META region and beyond.