In this exclusive conversation with Rima Semaan, Data and AI Lead at Microsoft, at Microsoft AI Tour 2025, Dubai, she shares her insights on the evolving landscape of data and AI, challenges UAE businesses face in AI adoption, and how Microsoft is pioneering the future of AI-driven solutions.
From democratising AI to building ethical and scalable frameworks, Rima’s leadership is shaping the way businesses unlock value from their data while navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing digital world. Join Mehak Anand, Content Writer at Tech Revolt, as she speaks with Rima about her expertise on shaping a future where collaboration and intelligent systems drive sustainable growth.
1. How is Microsoft AI transforming industries in the UAE, and what are some standout use cases you have seen?
I think this year, Microsoft is shifting from merely envisioning AI around the world to actively helping customers drive innovation and achieve actionable outcomes through our AI portfolio. We are doing this in three key ways.
First, we are providing customers with the right platform and cloud infrastructure in the UAE, supported by state-of-the-art data centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Second, we are introducing cutting-edge solutions, positioning the UAE among the global pioneers, with products like Microsoft Copilot, Copilot Studio, Azure AI, and Azure AI Foundry.
This enables customers to develop responsible AI use cases while achieving actionable outcomes. The use cases we’re seeing fall into three main categories: improving employee productivity with Microsoft Copilot, enhancing operational efficiency by streamlining organisational processes, and reimagining customer experiences. We have observed some remarkable implementations, and for those interested, we have showcased several customer examples that have had a significant impact.
One example I’d like to highlight is TAM, which has launched a new AI-powered application serving around 900 government entities. By integrating generative AI, they have transformed how citizens interact with government services, enabling seamless, intuitive engagement. The application supports multiple languages and voice-to-text functionality, significantly improving accessibility and user experience.
Another key use case is Diwa, which has transformed its internal operations through AI. They have boosted employee productivity with Microsoft Copilot and Azure AI, developing HR and IT companions. Additionally, they have enhanced customer engagement with an AI-powered assistant that helps users manage and understand their bills more efficiently.
We have also partnered with Alif Education, which is revolutionising student experiences in schools. Their AI tutor personalises learning based on individual student needs, incorporating gamification to make education more engaging. This has led to a 12% improvement in student performance and productivity—an impressive achievement.
Another favourite use case of mine, particularly in the financial sector, is FAB. They have developed a wealth advisor that helps relationship managers analyse key customer portfolios and recommend personalised investment strategies using a seamless generative AI experience. This has significantly enhanced both productivity and customer satisfaction.
We have also collaborated with Al-Futtaim, which has revamped its Blue app, integrating a Lifestyle Advisor—the first of its kind in the region. This AI-driven innovation allows customers to engage with the application seamlessly, reinforcing the region’s position at the forefront of digital transformation.
2. What are the key AI advancements Microsoft is showcasing at the AI Tour in Dubai today?
As you will see throughout the day, we are presenting numerous advancements across our portfolio, particularly with Microsoft Copilot, a productivity tool that offers significant benefits for organisations. Additionally, we are highlighting our AI core portfolio, which includes Azure AI Foundry, Azure DeepAI, and other secure open-source models.
We will also introduce the latest version of Security Copilot, which will be demonstrated on stage later today. With these innovations, we are accelerating productivity and redefining customer experiences.
3. Would you like to share which AI advancement is your personal favourite?
To be honest, I’m excited about the innovation happening from the ground up within the Azure platform with Foundry, especially given my background in data and AI. We were among the first countries to launch Azure DeepAI last year, and since then, we’ve been driving rapid innovation across our portfolio.
I believe Foundry is empowering customers to develop their own AI-driven agents—not just leveraging Copilot for productivity within Office 365 but also building integrated business applications to innovate on a larger scale.
4. How is Microsoft supporting businesses in the UAE to scale AI-driven solutions effectively?
That’s a great question. There are several areas I want to highlight.
Firstly, scaling is critical to AI transformation, which is why we have launched multiple initiatives, including the One Million Learners Initiative and the 100,000 AI National Scaling Initiative in partnership with the government. Scaling is essential not just for business transformation but also for ensuring job reskilling to meet the evolving demands of AI.
Secondly, we provide the latest cloud infrastructure and solutions, such as Foundry and Copilot, to enable businesses to scale effectively.
Thirdly, our collaboration with G42 is unlocking opportunities for regulated industries by introducing the sovereign cloud, ensuring that even the most heavily regulated sectors can embark on their AI journey with us.
5. What challenges do businesses in the UAE face in AI adoption, and how is Microsoft helping to address them?
The challenges in the UAE are relatively fewer, thanks to the government’s AI 2031 vision and its mandate for AI adoption. Businesses here have a strong appetite for AI and are ready to embrace it.
However, a shortage of AI skills remains a significant challenge, along with change management, which requires organisations to adopt transformation at scale. Microsoft is well-positioned to support businesses in overcoming these challenges through upskilling initiatives and AI-driven solutions that facilitate seamless adoption.
6. What role will AI play in the future of cloud computing, and is Microsoft prepared for it?
AI models are becoming increasingly intelligent, sophisticated, and widely accessible. Microsoft is investing in the right areas to ensure these technologies are available to all.
In the future, we will see cloud computing accelerate, AI models become even faster and more powerful, and infrastructure evolve to support these advancements. Microsoft’s ongoing investment in AI and cloud innovation aligns perfectly with the UAE’s vision, ensuring that businesses can thrive in an AI-driven world.
