In the digital-first world, technology isn't just a supporting function, but a vital player in an organization's success. This survey of thousands of executives and technology professionals examines the status, future, and risks of IT and technology use, specifically in large and enterprise-sized organizations in the UAE and across the world.
We surveyed 3,300 professionals worldwide working in IT and other business functions. In the UAE, 200 decision-makers across IT and other key business functions were surveyed from a range of private sector organizations. We've divided them into two broad categories: IT decision-makers (ITDMs) and business decision-makers (BDMs).
ITDMs
BDMs
of decision-makers in the UAE believe that IT is now more responsible for business innovations than ever before. This is close to the global average of 90%.
of ITDMs in the UAE believe that IT departments will play a greater role in setting the strategy for the organization in the next five years. This is 11% higher than the global average.
of decision-makers in the UAE report that the collaboration between their IT teams and other departments has increased over the last two years.
of ITDMs in the UAE say that their organizations have successfully decentralized their IT structure. Though they are lagging behind the global average of 64%, they are working towards decentralization: 49% report that they are currently attempting to decentralize their IT structure.
The perceived key benefits in decentralizing IT functions
Based on the responses of ITDMs
of the decision-makers in the UAE believe that the IT and security teams are responsible for protecting their organization from cyberattacks.
Only 2% said that it is the responsibility of everyone in the organization.
Top tech decisions that non-IT teams have the autonomy to make
Based on the responses of BDMs
of ITDMs in the UAE say that their organizations should have supported them more in the last two years. This is higher than the global average of 70%.
of ITDMs in the UAE say that they are actively looking for a new job. This is lower than the global average of 48%.
feel less loyal to their employers than they did two years ago. This is closer to the global average of 49%.
Though organizations in the UAE are not at a high risk of losing their tech talent, they should be careful and not take away the benefits valued by their ITDMs.
Which of the below would drive you to resign from your current organization if it was no longer offered?
Based on the responses of ITDMs
of ITDMs in the UAE say the potential to learn new skills is what they want most from their current role in the next five years. This is higher than the global average of 46%.
What do you want most from your role in the next five years?
Based on the responses of ITDMs
Leadership across UAE organizations are increasingly acknowledging the prominence of IT and the key role it plays in business innovations. Their capable IT teams are expected to play a key role in transforming the security landscape of the organization and training the non-IT teams.
Most IT leaders in the UAE are looking forward to learning new skills from their current roles. Though organizations are faring slightly better than their global counterparts in employee loyalty, they should take measures to ensure they don't lose their IT talent.
Prepare your organization for the digital workplace of the future.
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