UAE Consumers Demand AI Assistants Tailored for the Middle East, Survey Reveals

Technology

UAE Consumers Demand AI Assistants Tailored for the Middle East, Survey Reveals

A recent study has revealed a strong demand among UAE consumers for AI assistants tailored specifically for the Middle East. The survey, conducted by Researchscape International and commissioned by global tech company Yango, found that 92% of respondents in the UAE prefer a smart assistant designed with regional needs in mind.

The study highlights a significant cultural and linguistic preference among UAE residents. For instance, 66% of respondents emphasized the importance of an AI assistant being able to answer questions about Arabic culture, literature, and traditions. Additionally, 65% wanted the assistant to inform users of prayer times worldwide and play Surahs from the Quran. Moreover, 46% expressed a desire for the assistant to provide Hijri calendar dates.

Language preferences were also a key finding, with a notable 63% of respondents expressing a need for an assistant that speaks and understands Khaleeji Arabic. The survey also identified the most common Arabic dialects spoken at home: Khaleeji (40%), Egyptian (32%), and Levantine (27%).

Yango's response to these findings is Yasmina, a human-like AI assistant fluent in both Khaleeji Arabic and English. Yasmina is designed to go beyond basic tasks, offering features that are culturally attuned to the Middle East. According to Samer Mohamad, Yasmina Regional Director for MENA at Yango, "Our goal at Yango is to create a human-like AI assistant that deeply understands local culture. Yasmina can provide users with Hijri calendar dates, play Surahs from the Quran, and more."

General expectations for AI assistants were also covered in the survey. Respondents indicated that they want AI assistants to find information (54%), organize their day (54%), play mood-fitting music (41%), manage smart home devices (57%), and simplify everyday tasks and routines (51%).

Yasmina, part of Yango Play, the first AI-powered entertainment super app, offers users a personalized experience by suggesting songs, answering questions, and providing entertainment knowledge. Yasmina's capabilities range from navigating users through the Yango Play app to tailoring music suggestions and sharing fun facts about actors and films.

The survey, conducted online between February 7th and 20th, 2024, included 500 participants from the UAE and was carried out by Researchscape International on behalf of Yango.