The Transformative Impact of Data, Analytics, and AI on Business: Insights from Industry Leaders

As artificial intelligence (AI), data, and analytics reshape industries worldwide, leaders in the Middle East are forming our understanding of these technologies and their impact, both in their own region and globally. On November 7, 2024, the Harvard Business School Digital Data Design Institute (D^3) hosted a panel featuring prominent voices from sectors such as finance, government, and retail that provided key insights into the challenges, opportunities, and state of AI in organizations today. 

The discussion was introduced by Shibani Suri, Senior Lead for Strategic Growth and Alliances at D^3, and facilitated by Debbie Botha, Middle East Managing Director at Dalebrook Media and D^3 Industry Council Member. The panel included Peter Allan, Head of Business Information at Dubai Airports; Latifa Saleh AlShehhi, Director of Investment Data, Ministry of Investment, UAE; Shailesh Jain, Global Head of Analytics and Insights, Landmark Group; and Adil Belhouari, Senior Vice President and Head of AI, Data Science, Analytics and Business Intelligence at Riyad Bank. Here’s a look at the core insights shared by these AI leaders.

Key Insight: Strategic Alignment with Business Value

“38% of the leaders reported their functions as well established and successful. What do these leaders perceive as the highest contributing factor of their success? Most of the 38% successful leaders indicate that they focus on strategic value.”

Debbie Botha

Leaders agreed that aligning AI and analytics initiatives with overarching business objectives is paramount. Rather than pursuing technology for its own sake, successful data and AI programs emphasize measurable business impact. For example, Riyad Bank launched a Center of Intelligence that contributes to bottom-line business value by exploring predictive AI, generative AI, and advanced analytics use cases. Landmark Group is applying more than 50 analytical solutions across all of the brands they work with to optimize e-commerce, supply chain inventory, forecasting, pricing, and so on.

Key Insight: The Central Role of Data Quality, Governance, and Balance

“76% [of budget] is being spent on data quality, data governance, security, and data protection.”

Debbie Botha

For organizations to maximize the benefits of AI, the foundation of data quality, governance, and security must be strong. According to the panelists, data serves as the lifeblood of AI programs, but organizations must address the risks of managing that data, including issues around confidential data and intellectual property. Developing and enforcing strong AI policy and educating employees throughout the organization is crucial to ensuring they use AI in a safe and ethical manner.

Yet, beyond the clear need for AI data quality and governance, organizations must also look to balance data and human concerns. As Latifa Saleh AlShehhi said, “[Y]es, you need to focus on the right data quality and governance. But we also need to think about the citizens living in our cities and being proactive and using AI to support [their livelihoods], or [their journeys] within the city.” 

At Dubai Airports, a balanced approach provides a seamless customer experience. From smart gates to baggage claim, AI works behind the scenes to create an environment where, as Peter Allan said, “…you’re experiencing the benefits of AI everywhere […] as part of a holistic data program.”

Key Insight: People Challenges Outweigh Technical Barriers

“80% of challenges are attributed to people issues, and only 20% due to technology.”

Debbie Botha

A recurring theme among the leaders was the importance of managing people-related challenges when implementing AI. Resistance to change, data literacy skill gaps, and training needs are issues that affect the success of AI initiatives. To overcome this, leaders at Riyad Bank and the Ministry of Investment emphasize education and change management programs. In fact, Debbie Botha’s research shows that 90% of the leaders surveyed are implementing data and AI education programs. Botha also found that 75% of company leaders spend at least one day a week on change-related work, developing foundations of data and AI literacy programs across their enterprises. This work not only supports existing employees, it can help attract and retain AI talent in a highly competitive market.

Why This Matters

The discussion among data, analytics, and AI leaders highlights essential lessons for today’s business leaders. As organizations across industries invest in AI, strategic alignment, strong foundations in data governance, and focus on people-centered change management are critical for sustainable success. AI’s potential to enhance efficiency, profitability, and customer experiences is undeniable. Yet, as the panelists cautioned, businesses must proceed thoughtfully—prioritizing strategic value, maintaining data integrity, and cultivating a workforce that feels empowered to use these advanced tools.

Meet the Panelists

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