In a bold move to position itself at the forefront of global technological innovation, the UAE is aggressively advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives.
With strategic investments, comprehensive regulatory frameworks, and robust support systems, the nation aims to lead the world in AI development and deployment. The UAE is getting ready to transition from an oil state to an AI powerhouse, determined to have 40 percent of its gross domestic product generated with artificial intelligence by 2031. To achieve these goals, the nation is investing billions in technology, has appointed the world’s first Minister of State for AI, and is offering one-of-a-kind infrastructure and support to startups.
Expanding AI Infrastructure
The UAE’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 sets a clear roadmap to establish the country as a global hub for AI by 2031. The strategy focuses on developing a digital technology ecosystem and boosting the commercial adoption of AI across priority sectors like healthcare, education, logistics, and energy. Key initiatives include the deployment of generative AI, enterprise AI, robotics, and AI as a utility, with significant projects spearheaded by local firms such as G42, Bayanat, Core42, Khazna, and M42.
Strategic Collaborations and Investments
In a significant boost to its AI capabilities, the UAE has seen substantial investments from global tech giants. At the forefront has been Microsoft, with a $1 billion investment in Abu Dhabi-based G42, highlighting the region’s potential as an AI-driven solutions provider. G42 focuses on critical sectors like healthcare and education, which are crucial for the UAE’s economic diversification and technological advancement.
Regulatory Frameworks and Licensing
To ensure responsible deployment and governance of AI technologies, businesses operating within the UAE’s AI sector are required to obtain specific licences and approvals. This proactive regulatory approach fosters an environment where tech businesses can thrive under well-defined frameworks. The establishment of such regulations is part of a broader effort to maintain high standards of safety, privacy, and ethical AI use.
Government Support and Incubators
The UAE government’s commitment to AI is evident through various initiatives and support structures. Over 600 entrepreneurial startups have already engaged with the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) Accelerator Programmes, with 30 startups confirmed for an eight-week development program at AREA2071. These incubators provide invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for AI innovators.
Dedicated Ministry with a Focus on AI Development
The UAE appointed His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama as the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in October 2017, followed by his appointment as Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications in July 2020. H.E. Al Olama is tasked with enhancing government performance by leveraging the latest technologies and tools in artificial intelligence and implementing them across various sectors. The Office for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications is instrumental in formulating policies, strategies, and regulations pertinent to artificial intelligence and the digital economy. Its primary mission is to harness technology and innovation to boost the UAE’s competitiveness, foster economic growth, and enhance the well-being of its citizens. The office is charged with achieving the objectives of the UAE National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the UAE Digital Economy Strategy.
Addressing People Risks in AI Adoption
A recent report by Mercer Marsh Benefits titled “People Risk 2024” has highlighted various employee-related risks in the UAE, particularly in the context of AI adoption. Key concerns include the over-reliance on AI-generated content without proper verification and the misalignment between AI ambitions and budgets. The report calls for a digital-first people strategy to manage these risks effectively. Julio Garcia Villalon, Regional Leader for Mercer Marsh Benefits in India, the Middle East, and Africa, remarked, “People risks are broad-reaching, complex, and intricately linked to other risk challenges organisations face. Focusing on people in the context of each risk category can have a highly tangible impact on mitigating and reducing people’s risk in the future.”
World Championship in AI Prompt in Dubai
Dubai recently held the first Global Prompt Engineering Championship to launch the ‘One Million AI Prompters’ initiative. The event saw participants compete in categories beyond traditional coding, such as literature and art, highlighting the broad applicability of AI tools. The Global Prompt Engineering Championship received thousands of entries from around 100 countries. Thirty finalists from 13 countries qualified to come to Dubai to compete for the title of best prompt engineer in the competition’s three categories. The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) provided one million dirhams, approximately 273,000 US dollars, in prize money.
The UAE has shown its commitment to building a digital-first economy as it continues to invest in and develop its AI capabilities, thereby setting a benchmark for other nations. With strategic investments, robust regulatory frameworks, and unwavering government support, the UAE is not only enhancing its technological infrastructure but also ensuring sustainable and responsible AI deployment. This comprehensive approach is paving the way for the UAE to become a global leader in AI, driving innovation and economic growth on an unprecedented scale.