In conversation with Atif Azim, VentureDive’s CEO
VentureDive’s transformation from a traditional software development firm to a leading provider of data and AI solutions was a deliberate and thoughtful shift. As client needs evolved and data and AI took centre stage across industries, we recognised the opportunity to deepen our focus.
We’ve always adapted to where the industry was heading, which made acquiring a specialised data and AI firm a natural next step. This move formalised what was already core to our work, leading to our rebrand as a data and AI solutions company, with continued strength in broader technology services.
Today, we’re embedding intelligence into enterprise workflows and investing in expanding our offerings, and upskilling teams in advanced data science, machine learning to meet the growing demand for intelligent, outcome-driven systems. This shift has reinforced our role as trusted advisors, helping clients navigate complexity, uncover insights, and move faster with confidence.
The GCC, particularly the UAE and KSA, is advancing its digital agenda with AI at the core of national development strategies. Backed by government support and minimal legacy constraints, the region is seeing fast-paced adoption across smart cities, healthcare, fintech, and retail.
With customer experience and happiness being a core national focus, VentureDive is addressing this shift with AI and data solutions curated in-house. Our AI-Powered Compliance & Call Insights Engine for Call Centers supports multilingual recognition — especially Arabic — by transcribing conversations across languages and distinguishing between multiple speakers. This enables real-time sentiment analysis, compliance tracking, and performance management in contact centres.
In KSA, our AI-powered Call Insights platform improved compliance resolution by 40X, significantly enhancing operational efficiency across contact centres.
In retail, Shelf Sight enhances shelf visibility with AI-driven planogram monitoring, while in CPG, Uptrade simplifies trade promotion planning through automated workflows and data-led evaluation.
Working across global tech ecosystems, I’ve seen how innovation unfolds in different regions. What excites me about the Middle East is that it’s no longer just adopting technology — it’s helping define where it goes next.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in AI, digital infrastructure, and sustainability, with a strong focus on governance and customer experience. Initiatives across both nations are setting the stage for next-generation living and working environments.
For example, Saudi Arabia’s smart city initiatives in Riyadh and the UAE’s Dubai Digital Strategy are redefining mobility, urban design, and service delivery. These efforts are enabling rapid advancements in areas like autonomous transport, smart governance, and AI-driven public services.
VentureDive is playing a defining role in shaping the GCC region’s digital future. We’re focused on three priorities to solidify our existing position as a strategic partner:
Firstly, we’re deepening our localised expertise to ensure every solution we deliver is grounded in a clear understanding of regional challenges and context. This involves leveraging and building solutions on top of cutting technologies such as Falcon LLM, Digital Dirham etc.
Secondly, we’re committed to long-term partnerships with our customers, going beyond implementation to offer ongoing advisory and co-create sustainable and innovative solutions with our clients.
Lastly, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the UAE’s government initiatives and emerging tech ecosystems. By aligning closely with national priorities around AI and digital innovation, we’re positioning VentureDive as a trusted partner in helping the region realise its vision for a smarter, tech-driven future.
VentureDive is a global tech firm with over 13 years of experience in delivering innovative software solutions and technology services. Originally starting as a software development firm, specialising in staff augmentation and Teams-as-a-Service, VentureDive has evolved into a leading data and AI firm.
The company now focuses on providing custom-built solutions, including use-case specific products, to a broad range of industries, such as Public sector, CPG/Retail, eCommerce, BFSI, Manufacturing, Mobility, and Logistics.
The company enjoys a presence in North America, Europe, and APAC and is also targeting the Middle East with the UAE and KSA as target markets.
For more information visit www.venturedive.com/mea
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