SAS, a global leader in analytics with nearly five decades of experience, is gearing up for a dynamic presence at GITEX 2024, showcasing its latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies. Alexander Tikhonov, Regional Director for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) at SAS, shared insights into the company’s strategy for the upcoming tech event and the growing significance of AI in the region.
Tikhonov, who oversees operations in one of SAS’s most diverse regions, explained, “Our META region encompasses nearly 100 countries, with 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.”
Transformative AI Solutions at Gitex
As an industry expert in AI and machine learning, SAS aims to leverage GITEX as a platform to introduce its cutting-edge tools and AI-powered use cases to the market. Tikhonov highlighted 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 said.
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 explained. “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.”
“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.”
AI and Machine Learning: The Future of Digital Transformation
Tikhonov emphasized that AI is at the core of global digital transformation efforts, with governments and companies alike recognizing its potential. “Artificial intelligence is the biggest agenda right now for the entire world,” he noted. “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.”
Generative AI, a rapidly emerging trend, 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 continues to evolve, concerns surrounding data privacy and ethics have grown. 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.
Looking Ahead: AI’s Role in 2025 and Beyond
Looking towards 2025, Tikhonov believes 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.
A Platform for Collaboration
As SAS continues to push the boundaries of AI and machine learning, its 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.”
