Digital Dubai has organised the “Digitalising Life in Dubai 2026” event, bringing together government entities responsible for services, data, and digital technologies to accelerate the next phase of the emirate’s digital transformation journey.

The event aimed to coordinate government efforts and advance the development of Dubai’s future digital operating model. It focused on aligning initiatives with rapid technological advancements and transforming them into more integrated and proactive services delivered through unified digital channels.

The initiative supports the “Dubai-it” programme and serves as a practical platform for government entities to develop shared methodologies, address common challenges, and accelerate the implementation of projects that enhance experiences for individuals and businesses.

Additionally, the event aligns with the vision and directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The vision seeks to accelerate AI adoption across government operations and unify services for individuals and businesses within a single digital ecosystem.

According to organisers, this approach is laying the groundwork for a new government services model that uses data and AI to anticipate community needs, simplify user journeys, and improve quality of life.

The annual event serves as a platform for government entities to review progress, identify shared challenges, and accelerate solutions. It also aims to strengthen cross-government collaboration and support the transition from strategy to execution through a unified, Agentic AI-enabled digital transformation roadmap.

During the event, participants took part in workshops and expert discussions focused on four strategic pillars that will shape the next stage of Dubai’s digital transformation.

The first pillar, AI-Ready Data, explored the development of interconnected and high-quality data ecosystems that support the safe and responsible use of AI. Discussions also focused on improving decision-making and enabling future services.

Meanwhile, the second pillar, The Future of Experience Service Delivery, examined how government services can be designed around the needs of individuals and businesses rather than institutional structures. The goal is to provide more seamless and accessible experiences through unified digital channels.

The third pillar, AI Execution, focused on implementing AI and Agentic AI across government services and operational processes. Participants discussed ways to improve efficiency, productivity, responsiveness, adaptability, and innovation.

The fourth pillar, The Future of Digital Maturity, addressed the development of next-generation measurement frameworks that can support continuous improvement and future policymaking.

Commenting on the event, Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, said Dubai is entering a new era in which data, systems, and services operate as part of a single AI-powered ecosystem centred on people.

He noted that the focus is no longer solely on expanding digital services but on creating services that better understand people’s needs and respond proactively. He added that future government experiences should be integrated, seamless, and capable of delivering support with minimal effort from users.

Al Mansoori also said service design should be based on the experiences of citizens, residents, visitors, and business owners rather than institutional boundaries. He added that Dubai is working towards a connected ecosystem that shares data, standards, and capabilities to deliver a unified government experience.

Younus Al Nasser, Chief Executive of Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment at Digital Dubai, highlighted the growing role of data in enabling digital services and AI applications.

He said data has evolved beyond supporting decision-making and now serves as the foundation for digital services and AI-driven government operations. According to Al Nasser, building an AI-powered government requires a trusted and interoperable data ecosystem that transforms data into tangible value while enhancing quality of life and competitiveness.

Matar Saeed Al Hemeiri, Chief Executive of the Digital Dubai Government Establishment, said future service delivery depends on designing integrated experiences around customer needs.

He stated that unified platforms, standards, and methodologies can simplify customer journeys and create more consistent experiences. Al Hemeiri added that collaboration among government entities remains critical for removing obstacles, accelerating solutions, and translating strategic goals into measurable outcomes.

The event concluded with agreement on a series of implementation pathways linked to the four strategic pillars. Clear ownership was assigned to responsible entities, while monitoring and follow-up mechanisms were established to strengthen accountability and accelerate execution.

Broad participation from government entities reflected a shared commitment to advancing a more integrated and proactive government model powered by data, AI, and institutional collaboration. Through these efforts, Digital Dubai continues to strengthen Dubai’s global leadership in digital transformation, enhance quality of life, and improve the emirate’s competitiveness on the world stage.

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