Dubai has taken a significant step toward becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence by appointing 22 chief AI officers to key government departments.
This move, approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, aims to harness AI to revolutionize government operations and position Dubai at the forefront of technological innovation.
The newly appointed AI officers will serve in prominent government bodies, including Dubai Police, the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the Department of Economy and Tourism.
This strategic initiative aligns with the broader vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to make Dubai a global hub for developing and deploying AI solutions.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the importance of AI in achieving Dubai’s future-driven vision. “The acceleration of AI, its tools, and applications is a key pillar of our vision to position Dubai as a global hub in developing and deploying AI solutions,” he said. “The appointment of the new chief AI officers is a step towards transforming our vision into reality by accelerating our efforts and driving innovation.”
Dubai’s commitment to AI extends beyond this recent appointment. In June of the previous year, Sheikh Hamdan launched the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence at Emirates Towers.
This center aims to train 1,000 employees from over 30 government bodies in using generative AI to create images, videos, audio, text, and 3D models. The center also plans to launch pilot projects to enhance government services, increase employee productivity, and support over 20 advanced technology startups.
The UAE’s focus on AI is further underscored by the appointment of Omar Al Olama as the world’s first Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications in 2017. Additionally, the establishment of Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in Abu Dhabi in 2020, the first dedicated AI university in the world, highlights the nation’s commitment to AI-driven development.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and chairman of the university’s board of trustees, addressed the graduating class of 2024, underscoring their crucial role in the country’s development.
“You’ve chosen one of the most exciting disciplines in science, and one of the greatest catalysts in human development,” he said.
Dubai’s comprehensive approach to integrating AI across government operations and the broader commitment to AI in the UAE underscores the nation’s ambition to lead in technological innovation and governance efficiency.
