Indian companies lead global averages across all eight artificial intelligence readiness indicators tracked by JLL, but only 19 per cent have started making changes to their workplaces, according to the JLL 2026 Future of Work Survey.
The study found that 77 per cent of Indian business leaders expect AI to change their office requirements, creating a 58-percentage-point gap between awareness and implementation. The survey covered more than 2,200 CEOs, CFOs and real estate leaders across 21 countries during the first quarter of 2026.
Despite concerns over automation, 58 per cent of Indian leaders expect their workforce to grow over the next three to five years. Around 62 per cent believe AI will make human roles more valuable rather than replace employees, while 65 per cent expect staff performance to be assessed increasingly on work quality instead of hours worked.
India also performed above global averages in tracking AI trends, assessing the technology’s impact on real estate teams, training employees and exploring new locations. Around 56 per cent of Indian companies are tracking AI trends, compared with 46 per cent globally, while 48 per cent are studying its implications for real estate functions.
The survey identified skills shortages as the biggest barrier to transformation. Around 46 per cent of Indian companies cited shortages in AI, technology and data capabilities, while 35 per cent pointed to budget constraints. This marks the first time in the survey’s 15-year history that capability concerns have overtaken cost pressures.
Ajit Kumar, Managing Director, Work Dynamics Accounts, West Asia, JLL, said Indian companies have strong ambition and awareness, but capability separates businesses that have started implementation from those that only recognise the need.
Technology and AI support emerged as the leading investment priority for 50 per cent of companies, followed by reliable technology infrastructure at 49 per cent. However, cybersecurity and data privacy, AI-led disruption and uncertainty over future space requirements were among the biggest risks identified by business leaders.
Indian companies are also maintaining relatively high office attendance levels. Employees are expected to work from the office for an average of 3.8 days a week, while 62 per cent of organisations require staff to attend for four or five days.
Long-term transformation remains a priority despite rising costs. Around 73 per cent of companies would invest in AI-enabled buildings over basic maintenance, while 72 per cent favour long-term locations over flexible leases. Energy expenses and AI automation costs, cited by 49 per cent each, are expected to be the main drivers of rising office expenditure, while rent ranked sixth at 29 per cent.
JLL recommended that companies prepare for multiple workplace scenarios, combine external AI expertise with internal skill development, and strengthen coordination between human resources, technology, finance and real estate teams."
