In a significant step towards the ethical and responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), e&, a prominent global technology group, has announced a collaboration with IBM to launch a pioneering end-to-end AI governance platform. This project, unveiled at the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, aims to establish advanced standards for compliance, transparency, and ethical oversight in the use of AI.
A Comprehensive Approach to AI Governance
The new platform, based on IBM watsonx.governance, promises to provide a multi-model solution designed to address the emerging challenges associated with large-scale generative and traditional AI implementations. This tool will allow e& to manage risks, detect biases, and ensure regulatory compliance throughout the AI model lifecycle, from development to decommissioning.
According to Dena Almansoori, Director of AI and Data at e&:
“In a world where AI is transforming industries, establishing responsible governance practices is crucial. With IBM watsonx.governance, we are setting a new standard in transparency and efficiency, laying the groundwork for a trustworthy and ethical AI ecosystem.”
Key Benefits of the Platform
- Real-Time Monitoring: The platform provides continuous performance analytics, bias detection, and risk assessment, enabling proactive intervention.
- Centralized Model Inventory: Facilitates complete traceability, ensuring that every model meets ethical and regulatory standards.
- Automated Risk Management: Reduces complexity in monitoring diversified AI systems.
- Simplified Regulatory Compliance: Addresses regulatory demands through customized workflows and compliance metrics.
This initiative positions e& as a leader in AI governance, providing stakeholders with a robust framework to maximize return on investment while minimizing potential risks.
Strategic Collaboration between IBM and e&
IBM, with its expertise in hybrid cloud solutions and AI technologies, will play a key role in implementing the platform. In addition to offering its watsonx governance tool, IBM Consulting will work closely with e& to:
- Design a customized governance framework.
- Integrate existing AI models into the platform.
- Accelerate development using IBM Consulting Advantage, an AI-driven platform that streamlines market research, architectural patterns, and knowledge transfer materials.
Shukri Eid, General Manager of IBM in the Gulf, Levant, and Pakistan, commented:
“IBM watsonx enables organizations like e& to tackle AI governance challenges with automated solutions and centralized monitoring, paving the way for responsible innovation.”
Impact on the MENA Region and Beyond
This collaboration not only benefits e&, but also sets an example for other companies in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. In a recent joint report titled “MENA’s AI Advantage: Opportunity to Leap Ahead and Lead”, e& and IBM highlighted the importance of trustworthy AI and its strategic benefits for the region.
The report identified five critical themes for CEOs in the region, emphasizing the need to:
- Adopt trustworthy AI standards.
- Promote transparency in data usage.
- Leverage AI capabilities to lead in technological innovation.
About e&
e& has evolved from being a pioneer in telecommunications to a global technology group, with a presence in more than 38 countries and a strong portfolio of digital services, including IoT, 5G, cloud computing, and cybersecurityCybersecurity solutions are essential in the age of digital transformation…. In 2023, the company generated consolidated revenues of AED 53.8 billion and net profits of AED 10.3 billion, reflecting its financial strength and position as a leader in technological innovation.
Commitment to an Ethical and Responsible Future
With the launch of this AI governance platform, e& reaffirms its commitment to lead with ethics and innovation in the digital age. This collaboration with IBM not only strengthens trust in its AI operations but also sets a precedent for the responsible adoption of technology globally.