Global leader in analytics SAS presents AI-powered solutions suitable for finance, government and more at GITEX 2024.
SASa global analytics leader 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 Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META) at SAS, shared his views on the company’s strategy for the upcoming technology event and the growing importance 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 several subsidiaries in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and South Africa. . We are proud to have our regional headquarters in the UAE, positioning us at the heart of the Middle East’s digital transformation journey.
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 AI-based tools and use cases to the market. Tikhonov stressed the importance of presenting both technological advances and practical applications. “At GITEX, we want to introduce 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 business spans several key sectors, including finance, government, energy, utilities, education and retail. “We have specific use cases tailored to each industry,” Tikhonov explained. “Our goal is to help organizations streamline their processes and make more informed decisions, which, in turn, leads to better outcomes for citizens, savings for governments and increased revenue for commercial businesses. »
“Countries are adopting digitalization strategies centered on AI and machine learning, which enable organizations to analyze data more effectively, predict outcomes and improve decision-making.
AI and machine learning: the future of digital transformation
Tikhonov highlighted that AI is at the heart of global digital transformation efforts, and that governments and businesses recognize its potential. “Artificial intelligence is currently the biggest program in the entire world,” he emphasized. “Countries are adopting digitalization strategies centered around AI and machine learning, which enable organizations to analyze data more effectively, predict outcomes and improve decision-making. »
Generative AI, a rapidly emerging trend, is expected 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 improve predictive models. “Generative AI allows us to test data in innovative ways, compare results and ultimately make even better predictions,” he said.
Addressing ethical concerns with AI
As AI continues to evolve, concerns about data privacy and ethics have increased. Tikhonov recognized the importance of establishing regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible deployment of AI. “Governments are prioritizing the implementation of legal frameworks to properly manage AI. At SAS, we are investing heavily to ensure our AI solutions comply with regulations and align with the concept of trustworthy AI,” he emphasized.
Looking ahead: the role of AI in 2025 and beyond
Looking ahead to 2025, Tikhonov believes that AI will continue to dominate the technology landscape, with generative AI playing a central role. “We are still in the early stages of adopting generative AI, but it is clear that this technology will shape the future of all industries. We are excited to be at the forefront of this transformation,” he said.
A collaboration platform
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 range of industries. Tikhonov expressed his 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. This is a place where we can work together to support the UAE’s strategic vision for the future.