AI poised to halve Gulf jobs, sparking fears of unrest and economic downturn

A Gulf businessman's declaration that artificial intelligence will halve his companies' workforce this year to boost profits has sparked concern about the future of employment.

The move, aimed at cutting operational costs, could displace hundreds of workers. An AI expert from a top university confirmed that this trend is already occurring in many Gulf companies and is rapidly spreading.

This development poses a significant threat to university students preparing to enter the job market. The expert predicts that "half of them will have to stay home," highlighting the potential for mass unemployment among graduates.

The article warns of predictable consequences, including increased mischief and potential social unrest as young, unemployed individuals struggle to find work. This echoes past issues in Gulf states when job seekers faced similar difficulties.

While companies embrace AI to streamline operations and save money, the piece argues they overlook a critical economic impact: reduced purchasing power. As thousands are made redundant or fail to find jobs, consumer spending in sectors like retail, travel, and technology will plummet. This could lead to businesses facing greater difficulties that AI cannot reverse, potentially impacting real estate markets and foreign investment as demand dwindles.

“

Half of them will have to stay home.