抖阴短视频

How generative AI is transforming business management in 抖阴短视频

Special How generative AI is transforming business management in 抖阴短视频
Generative AI copilot Joule is rapidly becoming the natural language interface across the portfolio as SAP continues to embed AI across its applications. (Supplied)
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Updated 19 August 2024

How generative AI is transforming business management in 抖阴短视频

How generative AI is transforming business management in 抖阴短视频
  • Generative AI is streamlining business processes, enhancing decision-making, and boosting productivity
  • Ahmed Al-Faifi, head of SAP MENA, highlights the revolutionary impact of the technology on the Kingdom鈥檚 digital transformation

DUBAI: As businesses in 抖阴短视频 and the wider Gulf region strive for greater efficiency, innovation, and profitability, SAP鈥檚 generative artificial intelligence program, Joule, is set to revolutionize the way firms operate.

By integrating cutting-edge AI capabilities directly into business processes, the German software company aims to streamline workflows, enhance decision-making, and boost productivity across industries.

Ahmed Al-Faifi, senior vice president and managing director of SAP听Middle East and Africa 鈥斕齆orth, emphasized the impact of AI on the region during remarks at the recent SAP Sapphire conference in Barcelona, Spain.




Joule, SAP鈥檚 natural language generative AI copilot, is designed to simplify tasks and improve outcomes. (SAP photo)

鈥淭he groundbreaking use of generative AI and the partnerships announced by SAP at Sapphire are particularly relevant to our region, where both the public and private sectors have embraced the digital transformation necessary to leverage AI technologies,鈥 said Al-Faifi.

Joule, SAP鈥檚 natural language generative AI copilot, is at the heart of this transformation. Designed to simplify tasks and improve outcomes, Joule is expected to manage 80 percent of the most common tasks performed by SAP鈥檚 300 million end users by the end of 2024.

This shift has the potential to increase productivity by 20 percent, offering significant benefits to businesses in the Gulf region.

The capabilities of Joule extend across various business functions, from finance and analytics to order management. Joule also provides strategic recommendations, leveraging SAP鈥檚 B2B data model to offer real-time insights that enhance cash collection, supply chain decisions, and procurement strategies.

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This level of AI-driven support is particularly valuable in the Gulf, where businesses are navigating rapid growth and digital transformation.

Al-Faifi, a Saudi national leading SAP鈥檚 efforts in the region, highlighted the strategic importance of 抖阴短视频 as a market.

鈥淎mid this impressive and rapid digital evolution, it is imperative that we use AI in a way that will benefit our region鈥檚 businesses and communities,鈥 he said.




Ahmed Al-Faifi, senior vice president and managing director of SAP Middle East and North Africa. (Supplied)

鈥淔rom the outset, SAP pioneered AI solutions that are relevant, reliable, and responsible, and we remain committed to ensuring that the business AI infused across our portfolio adheres to these fundamental principles, while driving successful outcomes for public and private enterprises.鈥

SAP鈥檚 investment in 抖阴短视频 reflects its commitment to this mission. Earlier this year, the company opened an SAP Experience Center in the Kingdom鈥檚 Eastern Province city of Alkhobar, designed to drive innovation with customers and partners.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, SAP has also extended its Academy of Engineering program until 2025, further bolstering the country鈥檚 technological capabilities.




Last year, 抖阴短视频鈥檚 Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in collaboration with SAP Global launched a specialized training program aimed at qualifying national digital talent through both virtual and in-person journeys. (MICT photo)

Innovation is about leveraging knowledge about existing industries, Al-Faifi told Arab News. 鈥淔or example, in the oil and gas sector, we are working with Saudi Aramco on innovation, specifically regarding maintenance.听

鈥淲e are making sure that AI and technology are being used to help optimize the company鈥檚 maintenance. Of course, there is a business aspect here. We need to reduce costs or increase the time to revenue because maintenance means downtime.鈥

Al-Faifi also stressed the need for businesses to adapt quickly to the fast-paced advancements in AI.

鈥淎I is challenging everybody. It is going too fast,鈥 he said. 鈥淭here are so many scenarios, so many capabilities available, and the regulation is still evolving. The major focus here for SAP AI is to help the customer adapt and consume the technology they have in a much easier way.鈥

Joule is a key tool in this adaptation process, acting as an adviser to clients and simplifying complex business processes to enhance efficiency and productivity. This comes at a crucial time for 抖阴短视频, where rapid growth and transformation are driving the need for innovative solutions.

鈥淭he transformation taking place in 抖阴短视频 is very exciting,鈥 said Al-Faifi. 鈥淲e can leverage the use of AI in business to expedite projects and attract new ones. The SAP innovation center in Saudi is meant to help local projects learn how to go faster to realize their goals.鈥

As SAP continues to expand its AI capabilities, the Gulf region stands to benefit from more streamlined operations, faster project completion, and ultimately, a more competitive position in the global market.


4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah

4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah
Updated 15 November 2024

4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah

4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah
  • Three-day conference aims to enhance international efforts to confront challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance

RIYADH: The fourth high-level Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicked off in Jeddah on Thursday under the theme 鈥淔rom declaration to implementation 鈥 accelerating actions through multi-sectoral partnerships for the containment of AMR.鈥

The three-day conference, being held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health, includes ministers of health, environment and agriculture from various countries, besides the participation of a number of heads of international organizations such as the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Organization for Animal Health, and non-governmental organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in a move to enhance international efforts to confront the escalating challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance, which has become a threat to global health.

Saudi Minister of Health Fahd Al-Jalajel stressed that the conference is an opportunity for the international community to commit to a unified roadmap and set clear guidelines that will help address the increasing drug resistance in humans and animals.

Antimicrobial resistance poses a threat to all age groups, as it affects human, animal and plant health, as well as the environment and food security.

To curb the spread of antimicrobial resistance, the minister explained that we must adopt a comprehensive approach that systematically addresses the challenges that hinder progress, including sharing best practices, innovative financing initiatives, and developing new tools to combat antimicrobial resistance, stressing that the meeting is a vital opportunity to strengthen our collective global response to the risks of this growing 鈥渟ilent epidemic.鈥

Director General of the World Health Organization Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that antimicrobial resistance is not a future threat but a present one, making many of the antibiotics and other medicines we rely on less effective, and routine infections more difficult to treat.

He praised Saudi leadership in hosting the conference, stressing that the world must work together across a range of sectors, health, environment and agriculture, to stop the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

He pointed out that the Jeddah meeting will help coordinate global efforts across diverse ecosystems, including human, animal and agricultural health, in addition to protecting the environment.

A number of countries have already resorted to imposing laws that prevent the dispensing of antibiotics in pharmacies without a prescription, and the use of antibiotics in animal farms such as poultry and livestock has been regulated in a bid to slow resistance.
 


Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security

Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security
During their meeting in Riyadh, Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discussed the 鈥淪audi-British strategic partnership. (SP
Updated 15 November 2024

Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security

Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security
  • Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discuss 鈥榡oint efforts to address regional challenges鈥 and 鈥榮hared vision鈥 for regional and international security and stability

RIYADH: The defense ministers of 抖阴短视频 and the UK held talks on Thursday on cooperation between their nations and efforts to bring stability to the Middle East.

During their meeting in Riyadh, Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discussed the 鈥淪audi-British strategic partnership and explored avenues to enhance defense cooperation,鈥 the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Khalid said: 鈥淲e also discussed our joint efforts to address regional challenges, as well as our shared vision to promote regional and international security and stability.鈥

Ahead of the talks, the British Defense Ministry said Healey would 鈥渞eaffirm the UK鈥檚 commitment to a future-facing defense relationship with the Kingdom of 抖阴短视频. The defense secretary will build on the decades-long defense relationship between the (countries) to enhance cooperation on shared security priorities.鈥

Healey, making his first visit to Riyadh since becoming defense minister following the Labour Party鈥檚 election victory in July, was also expected to discuss with Prince Khalid the ongoing efforts to secure ceasefire agreements in Gaza and Lebanon.

Earlier on Thursday, Healey met in Ankara with Yasar Guler, his counterpart in Turkiye, a NATO ally.


Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry

Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry
Updated 15 November 2024

Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry

Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry
  • Closed-loop farming supports environment
  • Rising Saudi demand for organic products

RIYADH: Organic farming in Taif province鈥檚 villages and its serene mountain and valley farms represents a continuation of an ancient tradition.

This approach avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, ensuring that farms do not damage their surrounding environment, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Inherited organic farming wisdom from previous generations boosts the health of consumers and the vitality of soil, water, plants, and wildlife.

The farming methods practiced in Taif involve a closed-loop system in which animal and plant waste is recycled into natural fertilizers.

Abdullah Saed Al-Talhi, an 80-year-old Saudi farmer, has been farming in terraced fields in Taif's in the Al-Shafa mountains since he was young. (SPA)

This approach supports crop cultivation and animal husbandry, aligning with 抖阴短视频鈥檚 Vision 2030鈥檚 food security and sustainability objectives.

Drawing upon his years of experience tending terraced fields in the Al-Shafa mountains, 80-year-old farmer Abdullah Saed Al-Talhi told the SPA that organic agriculture is a fast-growing industry.

鈥淐onsumer demand for nutritious organic products is reshaping our industry,鈥 he explained.

鈥淲orking these mountain terraces has taught me that organic farming is more than a cultivation method 鈥 it is our legacy to future generations, ensuring sustainable food production for years to come.鈥

鈥淥rganic farming operates through two distinct approaches,鈥 Al-Talhi said. 鈥淲e have protected greenhouse cultivation and open-field farming, but both share the same fundamental principle: producing pure food without chemical interventions.鈥

He emphasized that this natural approach encompasses every aspect of farming 鈥 from soil enhancement and seed selection to pest control methods.

鈥淭he Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has spearheaded remarkable efforts to advance organic farming in Taif,鈥 he added.

The ministry offers instructional programs to budding organic farmers, supporting the establishment of new farms, increased production from existing farms, and the import and export of organic products.

Other support from the ministry includes securing certification to ensure the credibility of products in Saudi and international markets.

Speaking at a recent organic market event in Taif, Al-Talhi said: 鈥淭he market for organic products is experiencing remarkable growth.鈥
 


Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024

Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024
Updated 14 November 2024

Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024

Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024
  • Event 鈥榚mbodies the essence of striving toward new horizons,鈥 curator says
  • World鈥檚 largest light art festival gets underway on Nov. 28

RIYADH: The start of this year鈥檚 Noor Riyadh Festival is now just two weeks away and preparations for the annual event are well underway.

Launched in 2021, the festival is a celebration of light and the arts and includes contributions from leading Saudi and international artists. It also features community activities, workshops, discussions and shows.

Billed as the largest light art festival in the world, Noor Riyadh is part of the broader Riyadh Art initiative and aims to support and inspire young artists to drive the Kingdom鈥檚 creative economy.

This year鈥檚 theme is 鈥淟ight Years Away鈥 and a host of activities are planned at three key locations 鈥 King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifa and Diriyah鈥檚 JAX District 鈥 between Nov. 28 and Dec. 14.

The title is inspired by the Thuraya star cluster, which has long been a guiding light and symbol of aspiration, according to Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, the curator of Noor Riyadh 2024 and board member of the Visual Arts Commission.

鈥淭his year鈥檚 theme explores our journey from Althara, or Earth, toward Althuraya, or the stars, celebrating how art can bridge the physical and metaphysical,鈥 she told Arab News.

鈥溾楲ight Years Away鈥 is a theme that embodies the essence of striving toward new horizons, where light is used as a metaphor for hope, creativity and resilience.

鈥淲e want the audience to feel connected to the stars above and the Earth below, experiencing how art can unite diverse elements such as science, technology, philosophy and spirituality, fostering a shared sense of inspiration and identity.鈥

Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, an artist and artistic curator, is a member of the Board of Directors of the Visual Arts Commission. (Supplied)

Among the 60 artworks on offer this year are sculptural light installations and laser shows from artists like Ali Alruzaiza and Javier Riera, who use light to reimagine iconic sites like Murabba Palace.

鈥淭he works of artists like Saad Al Howede, Kimchi and Chips explore our relationship with the environment, challenging us to reflect on our impact on the Earth,鈥 Fadag said.

鈥淭he landscapes of Wadi Hanifa serve as a living canvas, inviting the audience to consider how we can preserve the environment and the beauty of our natural heritage.

鈥淭he JAX District is a hub for innovation, experimentation and digital creativity. Originally an industrial area, it has now transformed into a space that bridges art and technology. Here, traditional and modern techniques converge in an environment that supports the creative economy.鈥

Fadag said she hoped visitors would leave the festival with a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder.

鈥淭he Noor exhibition reminds us that, as individuals, we aspire to connect and engage. Art and light have the power to bring us together, inspire us and illuminate new paths forward.

鈥淚 believe these experiences will remain alive long after the festival ends, encouraging visitors to carry the festival鈥檚 light with them and continue exploring their own journeys, connecting the Earth to the sky in their unique ways.鈥
 


How a Saudi software developer is revolutionizing road safety with his AI driver-assist system

How a Saudi software developer is revolutionizing road safety with his AI driver-assist system
Updated 14 November 2024

How a Saudi software developer is revolutionizing road safety with his AI driver-assist system

How a Saudi software developer is revolutionizing road safety with his AI driver-assist system
  • Nasser Al-Khaldi is the mastermind behind a driver-assist system that performs well in congestion and makes roads safer
  • Developed by Comma.ai, the system incorporates AI-driven real-time analysis, using cameras and radar to prevent collisions

JEDDAH: Nasser Mansour Al-Khaldi is the researcher and automotive expert behind the Saudi-made version of an innovative artificial intelligence self-driving system that can be fitted to regular cars.

A native of Taif province, his passion for technology started at a young age through attempts to customize video games 鈥 including hacking his Xbox 360.

Since 2015, he has been focusing on autonomous driving technology 鈥 self-driving systems powered by AI. In 2023, the results of his efforts became apparent when he launched the first autopilot system in the Kingdom.

Al-Khaldi and his team 鈥 in cooperation with their partner, California-based startup Comma.ai 鈥 have developed an open-source software that runs the system, allowing motorists to install a driver-assist feature. The software enables the car to drive itself on motorways, staying in one lane and keeping a safe distance from the car in front, and to follow the vehicle immediately in front in traffic without human assistance.

鈥淚t took me around five years to develop a device that records vehicle data in order to analyze it and add more advanced safety and smart driving systems to existing vehicles on the market,鈥 Al-Khaldi told Arab News.

鈥淵es, it is made in collaboration with our partner in the US, but we upgraded our own version and it has more features. So, you can say it is 鈥榤ade in 抖阴短视频鈥 by a very intelligent Saudi team,鈥 he added.

DID YOUKNOW?

鈥 The Saudi-made AI driver-assistance system was trained on over 100 million miles.

鈥 It incorporates AI-driven real-time analysis, using cameras and radar to prevent collisions.

鈥 It is compatible with more than 64 car models not supported by Comma.ai鈥檚 original tech.

鈥 The Saudi-made device has been exported to the US, Europe, Africa, and the Arab world.

Although the base technology, Open Pilot, was developed by Comma.ai, Al-Khaldi explained that his version has been significantly developed to align with local needs, expanding compatibility to work with more than 64 car models not supported by the original.

The Saudi programmer also developed the autonomous driver technology to function at low speeds, improving its effectiveness in the stop-start traffic that is common in the Gulf region.

He explained that the self-driving device 鈥渓everages AI and remote sensing technology to continuously analyze and understand the vehicle鈥檚 surroundings.鈥

鈥婣side from developing 抖阴短视频's first autopilot system, Nasser Mansour Al-Khaldi is the researcher also developed the autonomous driver technology to function at low speeds, improving its effectiveness in the stop-start traffic. (Supplied)

The unit has been on the Saudi market for about a year and a half, and approximately 500 have been sold, according to Al-Khaldi.

鈥淚n addition to our presence in the Saudi market, we have also exported our device 鈥 which can be adapted to almost any modern car 鈥 to the US, Europe, Africa and other parts of the Arab world,鈥 he added.

Arab News joined 29-year-old Al-Khaldi to experience the driver-assistance system, which is installed in his Toyota Highlander. We began the ride on the highway north of Jeddah.

The results were impressive. From the driver鈥檚 seat, with his hands removed from the steering wheel, Al-Khaldi said: 鈥淎t this point our (system) can handle all types of curves. On the highway, you can drive for hours without any user intervention. I just drove from Taif to Jeddah on curvy, hilly roads without any user intervention.鈥

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Al-Khaldi said that the system integrates multiple components to provide 鈥渁 safe and efficient autonomous driving experience,鈥 controlling steering, acceleration, and braking. It uses open-source AI technology, trained on over 100 million miles and able to adapt to a variety of driving conditions.

鈥淭he system relies on high-resolution cameras and radar sensors to detect lanes, track nearby vehicles, and analyze data in real time. This analysis helps prevent collisions and ensures the vehicle stays in its lane,鈥 he explained.

鈥淥ne of our customers who lives in the US installed our device in his car and recently, while driving down a long stretch of highway heading to another state, he lost consciousness and the car drove itself for two hours until he woke up. He later messaged us and expressed his thanks for our device鈥檚 reliability,鈥 he added. 鈥淔ollowing this event, the system received an enhanced safety update. Now, if the driver鈥檚 eyes remain fixed and unresponsive, signaling potential loss of consciousness, the system prompts the driver to touch the steering wheel, providing an additional layer of safety during medical emergencies like seizures or sudden loss of consciousness.鈥

Inspired by his team's successes, Nasser Mansour Al-Khaldi now envisions a future where AI powers self-driving cars across the Kingdom. (SPA photo)

According to the US website Consumer Reports, Open Pilot is currently the most advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) on the market.

Al-Khaldi and his team are now exploring ways to tailor the system to various levels of driving experience. 鈥淚 think we鈥檒l find better ways of doing it that will be simpler and allow more users access to the technology,鈥 he said.

Al-Khaldi envisions a future where AI powers self-driving cars across the Kingdom. He said: 鈥湺兑醵淌悠 has an ambitious vision that embraces artificial intelligence technologies. Self-driving has become one of the most important AI tools.鈥