Noha Gad

Have you ever wondered why some entrepreneurs build thriving, resilient businesses while others with great ideas still struggle? The difference often is not IQ, experience, or luck, it is emotional intelligence (EI). Studies show that 90% of top-performing leaders excel in EI, mastering skills like self-awareness, empathy, and adaptability. In this blog, we will explore why EI is a non-negotiable superpower for entrepreneurs and how you can develop it to future-proof your success.

What is emotional intelligence?

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions while effectively navigating the emotions of others. Unlike IQ, which measures cognitive ability, EI focuses on the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that drive meaningful relationships and sound decision-making. 

Psychologist Daniel Goleman’s widely accepted framework breaks EI into five core competencies: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. For entrepreneurs, mastering these components is not just about being ‘likable’, it is a strategic advantage that fuels leadership, negotiation, and resilience in high-stakes environments.

How EI triggers entrepreneurs’ success and growth

Entrepreneurs with high emotional intelligence do not just build businesses, they build loyal teams, devoted customers, and resilient organizations. Those who master EI make sharper decisions under pressure because they recognize how stress biases judgment. 

Additionally, leaders with high self-awareness create environments where talent thrives, reducing turnover by half, compared to visionary founders who prioritize ideas over people.

Perhaps most crucially, EI builds the resilienceto endure entrepreneurial lows. Research showed that founders with strong emotional skills are three times more likely to survive past five years.

In an era of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, emotional intelligence remains the ultimate competitive edge. While technology handles tasks, entrepreneurs who excel in empathy, self-regulation, and social awareness will always own the human advantage: the ability to turn transactions into loyalty and ideas into lasting impact.

Low EI signs and their impact on entrepreneurs’ performance

Entrepreneurs who lack emotional intelligence often unknowingly create their biggest obstacles. Here are some low EI signs that can negatively affect entrepreneurs’ performance:

• Conflict mismanagement: founders who dismiss team concerns as a default to aggressive responses frequently face toxic workplace cultures and high turnover.
• Impulsive decision-making: Entrepreneurs who cannot regulate their emotions often chase shiny objects, suddenly pivoting strategies after one setback or overcommitting resources to emotionally charged projects.
• Burnout contagion: Founders who ignore their own stress signals typically fail to recognize team exhaustion until it is too late.
• Empathy blind spots in customer relations: Entrepreneurs who cannot step outside their own perspective often launch tone-deaf initiatives. These missteps do not just waste marketing dollars, but they erode brand trust that can take years to rebuild.

How to Develop EI as an Entrepreneur

Developing emotional intelligence is not about personality overhaul, it is targeted skill-building. Here are key practical strategies entrepreneurs can adopt to develop their EI:

• Self-awareness audits. Block 15 minutes weekly to journal emotional triggers during high-stakes meetings or decisions. Tools like mood-tracking applications or 360-degree feedback surveys reveal blind spots.
• self-regulation. Adopt the "10-second rule" before responding to provocations, then ask, "Will this reaction serve my long-term goals?" 
• Empathy development. This requires active practice. You can replace solution-oriented listening with validation.

Finally, emotional intelligence emerges as the last unconquerable advantage in an era where AI handles analytics and capital flows freely. Along with brilliant ideas, entrepreneurs need to forge unshakable team loyalty, navigate crises with grace, and instinctively understand unmet human needs to thrive.

Kholoud Hussein 

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have emerged as pivotal forces driving innovation and efficiency. Integrating these technologies is no longer a luxury for tech startups but a necessity to remain competitive and agile. This installment of our series, "Building Blocks of Startup Success: The Industries Powering Innovation," explores the significance of AI and ML partnerships for tech startups, with a special focus on the burgeoning ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.

The Imperative of AI and ML for Tech Startups

AI and ML technologies enable startups to analyze vast amounts of data, automate processes, and deliver personalized customer experiences. According to a report by Exploding Topics, approximately 35% of companies have adopted AI services to address labor shortages, and global AI adoption is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.6% between 2024 and 2030. 

The benefits of incorporating AI and ML into business operations are manifold:

• Enhanced Decision-Making: AI-driven analytics provide startups with actionable insights, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning.
• Operational Efficiency: Automation of routine tasks through AI reduces operational costs and minimizes human error, leading to increased productivity.
• Customer Engagement: Personalized recommendations and services powered by ML algorithms enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

AI and ML Adoption Among Startups

The adoption of AI and ML is particularly pronounced among startups aiming to disrupt traditional business models. A McKinsey Global Survey indicates that organizations are beginning to implement changes designed to generate future value from generative AI, with large companies leading the way.

In the United States, AI adoption rates vary by company size. Data from the Bipartisan Policy Center reveals that firms with 250 or more employees have an adoption rate of 7.2%, while those with one to four employees have a rate of 5.5%. This trend underscores that both large enterprises and nimble startups recognize the value of AI integration.

The Saudi Arabian Context

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a technological renaissance, with AI and ML at the forefront of its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. The Kingdom's deep tech startup ecosystem is thriving, with half of these startups focusing on AI and the Internet of Things (IoT), reflecting a robust commitment to technological advancement.

Several Saudi startups have emerged as leaders in the AI and ML space:

• Mozn: Specializing in AI development and IT strategy consulting, Mozn operates in Riyadh and London, offering solutions that enhance business intelligence and operational efficiency. 
• Lucidya: This startup focuses on AI-driven customer experience management, enabling businesses to analyze and improve customer interactions across various platforms.
• Intelmatix: Providing AI solutions for decision intelligence, Intelmatix assists organizations in making data-driven decisions to optimize performance.

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) plays a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship in data and AI, contributing to the growth of a knowledge-based economy. 

Insights from Saudi Business Leaders

Saudi business leaders recognize the transformative potential of AI and ML. For instance, Cognite, an industrial software firm backed by Saudi Aramco, has expanded its AI services to India, aiming to collaborate with major conglomerates and invest significantly in the region. This move underscores the strategic importance placed on AI by leading Saudi enterprises.

Furthermore, vminds.ai, a platform developed by VEEM Solutions, integrates over 150 AI tools from global providers, offering services like generative AI for text, images, video, music, AI-powered automation, and speech processing. The startup has secured six-figure pre-seed funding and has been incubated at Saudi Aramco’s Wa’ed Entrepreneurship Centre and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s Tech Champions Accelerator, demonstrating strong ecosystem support. 

Challenges and Considerations

While the integration of AI and ML offers numerous benefits, startups must navigate certain challenges:

• Resource Constraints: Developing and implementing AI solutions can be resource-intensive, requiring specialized talent and infrastructure.
• Data Quality: AI systems rely on high-quality data; ensuring data accuracy and relevance is crucial for effective outcomes.
• Ethical Implications: Startups must consider the ethical aspects of AI deployment, including data privacy and algorithmic bias.

Finally, AI and ML are indispensable partners for tech startups aiming to innovate and thrive in a competitive landscape. The global trend toward AI adoption is mirrored in Saudi Arabia, where a vibrant ecosystem supports the growth of AI-focused startups. By embracing these technologies, startups can enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and deliver superior customer experiences, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.

In the next installment of our series, "Building Blocks of Startup Success: The Industries Powering Innovation," we will explore the role of Data Analytics Services in transforming raw information into actionable insights. Understanding how to harness data effectively is crucial for startups seeking to make informed decisions and drive strategic growth.

Stay tuned as we delve into how data analytics can empower startups to unlock new opportunities and achieve sustained success.

Kholoud Hussein 

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been positioning itself as a formidable player in the global technology landscape, fueled by the Vision 2030 initiative that aims to diversify its economy away from oil dependency. One of the standout initiatives under this vision is LEAP 2025, a groundbreaking event and platform that is significantly influencing the nation’s tech ambitions and fostering a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurship and startups.

The Genesis of LEAP 2025

LEAP 2025, an annual technology conference, debuted in 2022, capturing the attention of tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and investors alike. Hosted in Riyadh, it has quickly become one of the largest tech gatherings in the Middle East, bringing together innovators, global tech leaders, and influential policymakers. According to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the inaugural event attracted over 400 speakers and more than 100,000 attendees, signaling the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to becoming a tech hub.

Key Themes and Objectives

At its core, LEAP 2025 is more than just a conference; it is a strategic platform designed to propel Saudi Arabia's digital transformation. The event focuses on key themes such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, which are vital to ensure that Saudi Arabia can compete globally in the tech arena. Furthermore, it offers a fertile ground for startups to connect with potential investors, mentors, and partners.

According to the latest report from the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), the country experienced a 73% increase in investment in technology startups in 2023, amounting to $1.4 billion. Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah Al-Sawaha, noted, “LEAP 2025 is not just about showcasing technology but is a catalyst for innovative thinking and collaboration among global leaders to address the challenges of our time.”

Boosting Entrepreneurial Spirit

LEAP 2025 plays a critical role in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within the Kingdom. The event features competitions for startups, pitch sessions, and opportunities for entrepreneurs to network with industry giants. In 2023, over 1,000 startups participated in various competitions, showcasing their innovations to an audience of global investors. The engagement between startups and potential backers is particularly vital as it can lead to significant funding opportunities.

“We are transforming our economy to foster innovation, and LEAP is a crucial component of this transformation. It serves as a launchpad for local startups to gain visibility and access to funding,” commented Majed Al-Rashid, CEO of the Saudi Arabian Digital Agency.

International Collaboration and Investment Opportunities

LEAP 2025 is also attracting international attention, with global tech companies eyeing the rapidly growing market. In a recent interview, Andrew Wilson, CEO of a leading international tech firm, stated, “Saudi Arabia is on the brink of a tech revolution, and platforms like LEAP 2025 are essential for us to connect with and support local talents and innovations.”

The sustained interest from foreign investors is evident as Saudi Arabia aims to become a regional tech hub. In 2022, the Kingdom attracted $2.5 billion in foreign direct investments in the tech sector, with expectations for this number to grow substantially in the coming years.

Government Support and Regulatory Framework

The Saudi government recognizes the dual importance of fostering innovation while ensuring a robust regulatory framework. Funds like the Saudi Technology Ventures (STV) and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) are already channeling billions into the tech landscape, aiming to support startups at various stages of growth.

During the LEAP 2025 opening, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a sustainable ecosystem for entrepreneurs: “We believe that the youth of our nation hold the key to our future. By supporting tech ambitions, we are empowering a generation of innovators to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s vision.”

Education and Skill Development

Another crucial element of LEAP 2025 is its focus on education and skills alignment. Workshops and boot camps hosted during the event address the critical skill gaps in the tech industry, ensuring that the local workforce is adequately prepared for future demands. The MCIT reports that more than 20,000 professionals have upskilled in various tech domains through programs initiated under the LEAP banner over the past two years.

Minister Al-Sawaha remarked, “For Saudi Arabia to thrive in the tech world, we must invest in our people. LEAP 2025 is committed to not only showcasing innovations but also empowering human capital.”

The Road Ahead

As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its digital footprint, LEAP 2025 will remain at the forefront of this transformation. The government's efforts to build a dynamic startup ecosystem are complemented by global partnerships and investments, creating a robust framework for future success.

The impact of LEAP 2025 on Saudi Arabia's economy is immense, with estimates suggesting that the tech sector could contribute as much as $20 billion to the country’s GDP by 2030. This exponential growth will not only transform the economy but also enhance job creation, with projections indicating that over 1 million new tech jobs could emerge within the next decade.

Furthermore, LEAP 2025 is expected to catalyze advancements in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and logistics, by driving technological innovation and adoption. With the backing of the government, private sector, and international stakeholders, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a leading global player in emerging technologies.

As the event evolves, the emphasis on sustainability and ethical tech development will ensure that the Kingdom adheres to global standards while addressing local challenges. By fostering an environment conducive to creativity and collaboration, LEAP 2025 will shape the future of technology in Saudi Arabia and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators to dream big and lead the way in the Kingdom's remarkable journey towards a diversified and prosperous economy.

Noha Gad

As Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards economic diversification under Vision 2030, the property technology (proptech) and real estate sector has become a focal point for innovation. Proptech is transforming how real estate is managed, bought, and sold, offering new solutions to long-standing challenges in the industry. 

Saudi Arabia, with its ambitious development projects and expanding urbanization, embraces proptech to enhance its real estate ecosystem. From smart cities like Neom to large-scale urban developments in major Saudi cities, the integration of technology into the real estate sector is pivotal. 

Artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and automation streamline property management, improving investment decision-making and creating more personalized experiences for buyers and tenants.

The adoption of these emerging technologies reshaped the real estate landscape, aligning perfectly with the Kingdom’s goal to become a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

How AI revolutionize proptech industry

The integration of AI into real estate operations contributes to streamlining processes, driving efficiencies, and creating smarter, more sustainable urban spaces. AI could revolutionize the proptech industry by providing:

• Predictive analytics and market insights: By analyzing massive datasets, AI tools can forecast property price fluctuations and predict future demand, allowing developers and investors to make more informed, data-driven decisions, and ultimately transforming the way real estate professionals assess property values, market trends, and demand patterns. 
• Smart building and sustainable solutions: AI plays a crucial role in creating energy-efficient, tech-driven buildings as AI-integrated systems could help in optimizing energy consumption monitor, air quality, and adjusting lighting and temperature automatically.
• Streamlining property management: AI could improve the efficiency of property management by automating everyday tasks, while AI chatbots and virtual assistants can handle customer inquiries and schedule repairs. This proactive approach could reduce downtime, improve tenant satisfaction, and help property managers save time and resources.
• Personalized property search to enhance customer experience: AI-powered platforms can offer personalized property recommendations based on user preferences, previous searches, and even financial profiles.
• Virtual property tours: Virtual tours and augmented reality (AR) powered by AI allow prospective tenants and buyers to experience properties remotely, saving time and effort.

AI and risk mitigation

AI algorithms can assess potential risks like market volatility, economic shifts, or project delays, revolutionizing how decisions are made. AI could also help financial institutions and lenders evaluate the creditworthiness of real estate ventures, ensuring smarter financing decisions.

Challenges and ethical considerations of AI in proptech 

Challenges in implementing AI in proptech

While AI is revolutionizing the proptech industry, its adoption comes with challenges and ethical concerns that must be addressed to ensure responsible and effective integration. Key issues include:

• Data privacy and security.
• High implementation costs.
• Upskilling and training the real estate workforce.
• Dependence on large volumes of accurate and high-quality data.
• Integrating A with legacy systems.

Meanwhile, ethical considerations in adopting AI in proptech industry include:

• Algorithms bias: AI systems can unintentionally reinforce biases present in the data they are trained on.
• Transparency and accountability: AI’s decision-making processes are often opaque, making it hard to understand how certain conclusions are reached.
• Impact on employment: Automating tasks such as property management and customer service may lead to job displacement in the real estate sector.
• Ethical use of customer data: Collecting and analyzing customer data for AI-driven insights raises concerns about consent and ethical use.

To sum up, AI is not just a technological trend; it is a transformative force redefining the proptech industry in Saudi Arabia. From streamlining operations and improving decision-making to enhancing customer experiences and supporting sustainable urban development, AI is unlocking new possibilities for innovation and growth.