A recent survey conducted by global technology leader SAP has revealed a sharp rise in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) expertise across UAE businesses. The study, commissioned by SAP and carried out by YouGov, highlights a growing focus on bridging the AI skills gap through targeted training programs for Emirati graduates and university students.
With AI adoption accelerating across industries, 84% of UAE companies surveyed said they plan to hire specialised AI talent within the next 15 months. However, the findings also identified a key challenge: 43% of IT decision-makers cited a lack of skilled employees as a significant barrier to AI implementation.
To address this, many businesses are upskilling their workforce. While 57% of companies have already introduced AI training for existing staff, an additional 35% intend to roll out similar programs in the coming months.
“Large-scale digital transformation, the rapid evolution of AI, and the need for a highly skilled UAE workforce to sustain a diversified, digital economy are all contributing to a surge in demand for employees with advanced technology skills, particularly AI expertise, and SAP is addressing this challenge head on,” said Marwan Zeineddine, SAP UAE Managing Director.

Zeineddine added: “In addition to our own Emiratization and skills-development programs, SAP invests significantly in external technology training in the UAE to develop a highly skilled, sustainable workforce. Many initiatives are aimed at young people, such as our collaboration with UAE universities through the SAP Dual Study Program, which provides students with practical technology experience to complement their academic studies. Our Young Professionals Program also helps shape future leaders in both the public and private sectors.”
Empowering Emirati Talent
SAP’s Young Professionals Program (YPP), launched over a decade ago, has trained multiple cohorts of Emirati graduates, with women comprising more than 80% of recent participants. The program equips attendees with certifications in advanced solutions such as SAP Analytics Cloud and SAP S/4HANA Cloud, ensuring they are job-ready upon completion. The initiative boasts a global placement rate of 95%, enabling participants to work directly with SAP customers and partners.
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) is among the organizations supporting the program. Jawaher Alhosani, Product Owner of ADCB Technology Services, said: “The Young Professionals Program empowers ADCB employees with advanced digital skills necessary to drive innovation in an evolving AI-driven landscape. By investing in their development, we elevate our standards and ensure our workforce remains prepared to support sustainable growth and high-performance outcomes.”
Bridging the Education-Industry Divide
SAP’s partnerships with UAE universities include the University Alliances program, which provides access to SAP software, teaching materials, and research collaborations. In 2025, SAP plans to launch a learning tour for students from top UAE universities, offering hands-on workshops and exposure to SAP’s key focus areas, including AI and sustainability, at its global headquarters in Germany.
The Dual Study Program, run by SAP’s Digital Skills Center, has already equipped over 800 UAE students with practical technology skills and certifications. Dr. Zied Bahroun of the American University of Sharjah said the program offers students a competitive edge: “It enhances their practical experience and solid academic knowledge, creating well-rounded graduates who can immediately contribute to the UAE’s thriving digital economy.”