Shaping the future of work: Kuwait private sector validates study on artificial intelligence and productivity

Kuwait City (ILO News) — The ILO Bureau of Employers’ Activities (ACT/EMP), the ILO Research Department and the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) convened a validation session today to review the findings of a landmark study on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on productivity in Kuwait’s private sector. The event gathered more than 40 representatives from leading companies across finance, logistics, education, technology, and manufacturing. The consultant Mr. Hamad Elias facilitate the session as main expert involved in the study.

© Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI),

© Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI),

This study comes at a strategic moment as Kuwait advances its National AI Strategy, which aims to position the country as a regional leader in responsible and human-centered AI adoption. The strategy emphasizes innovation, ethical standards, and workforce readiness, aligning with global trends toward digital transformation. The research presented today shows that AI adoption in Kuwait is progressing but remains uneven. Larger firms are more likely to have formal AI policies, training programs, and advanced data infrastructure, enabling them to integrate AI into core business functions. Small and medium-sized enterprises, by contrast, often face internal capability gaps and external regulatory uncertainties. While most companies report efficiency gains and cost reductions, only a minority have verified these improvements through measurable indicators. The study also finds that optimism about AI is widespread, with firms viewing it as a tool to augment human roles rather than replace them.

© Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

© Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

We inherently believe that AI should be human-centered, to ensure we unleash its potential on productivity.

Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

Why This Matters: The Global and ILO Perspective

According to the ILO AI Observatory, global adoption of AI is accelerating, but disparities in access to technology, skills, and infrastructure are widening. The Observatory estimates that up to 30% of work tasks worldwide could be automated or augmented by AI in the coming decade, with significant productivity gains concentrated in firms that combine AI with strong data systems and skilled workforces. However, without proactive measures, these benefits risk deepening inequalities between large and small enterprises and across countries.

© Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

© Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

An ILO report stresses that addressing these challenges is essential for Kuwait to remain competitive and ensure inclusive growth. AI can improve productivity and working conditions, but only if complemented by robust employment policies, skills development programs, and social dialogue. This includes investing in digital infrastructure, creating upskilling and reskilling pathways, and supporting SMEs to participate in the digital economy. Failure to act could lead to uneven productivity gains, job polarization, and missed opportunities for sustainable development.

The validated findings of this study will inform a bilingual advocacy paper to be published jointly by the ILO and KCCI. This paper will guide dialogue with policymakers, employers, and ecosystem partners to shape an AI adoption pathway that enhances productivity while promoting decent work and sustainable growth.

The Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry, established in 1959, is the country’s principal business organization, representing thousands of enterprises and serving as a key voice in shaping economic policy. Its collaboration with the ILO reflects a shared commitment to supporting innovation and competitiveness while safeguarding employment and skills development.