Global banking group Citi has announced the launch of a new suite of advanced, proprietary Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools for its employees across the UAE and the wider Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. The deployment is a key part of the bank’s global digital transformation strategy and underscores its commitment to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and client services.
Enhancing Efficiency on a Global Scale
The AI tools are being rolled out to approximately 175,000 employees in 80 jurisdictions worldwide, with a significant focus on the MEA region where they will be accessible in over 20 countries. The technology is designed to streamline complex tasks, automate routine processes, and generate deeper insights from large datasets. By integrating these capabilities into daily workflows, Citi aims to free up valuable employee time, allowing teams to focus on more strategic initiatives and higher-value client interactions, ultimately improving the overall customer experience.
A Commitment to the UAE’s Digital Vision
The launch event in Dubai highlighted the strategic importance of the UAE and the broader region to Citi’s innovation agenda. The move aligns with the UAE’s national vision for a digital future and is expected to empower local teams to deliver more tailored and responsive services.
“The introduction of these advanced AI tools marks a pivotal moment for our operations in the UAE,” said Shamsa Al-Falasi, UAE Citi Country Officer and CEO of Citibank N.A, UAE. “This technology will not only significantly enhance our internal capabilities and efficiency but also empower our teams to deliver unparalleled client service, fostering innovation that is uniquely tailored to the dynamic needs of the UAE market.”
Maria Ivanova, UAE and North Africa & Levant Sub-Cluster and Banking Head, added, “The launch of our AI tools in the UAE and in MEA is a testament to Citi’s unwavering commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology to better serve our clients and empower our employees.”
Implications for the Regional Tech Landscape
The adoption of sophisticated AI tools by a major financial institution like Citi signals a significant trend for the region’s technology and financial services sectors. This large-scale deployment demonstrates a clear business case for AI in enhancing productivity and service delivery within established corporations. For the local startup ecosystem, this move validates the growing market for enterprise-grade AI solutions and may create new opportunities for B2B tech companies specializing in AI, data analytics, and process automation. It also sets a new benchmark for digital transformation, likely encouraging other legacy institutions in the region to accelerate their own technology adoption strategies.
About Citi
Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management, and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions, and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.
Source: Zawya
