Dubai’s AI Roadmap: Executives Unite at AI Retreat 2024

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s leading business and government executives are set to drive the city’s AI roadmap at the AI Retreat 2024. The event, hosted at the Museum of the Future and AREA 2071, Emirates Towers on June 11, 2024, aims to accelerate AI adoption across all sectors, enhancing society and humanity.

Key figures from industry and government, alongside global tech giants, highlighted the importance of the AI Retreat for fostering partnerships that propel AI integration. The retreat will gather over 1,000 AI experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to address AI challenges and opportunities, shaping foundational strategies for AI applications.

Organized by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) in collaboration with the National Program for Artificial Intelligence, this event is the first under the annual Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence. It aims to position Dubai as a global hub for technology, innovation, and AI.

High-Profile Support and Visionary Leadership

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being Pillar, emphasized that the AI Retreat aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, anticipating global AI and digital transformation trends. Al Tayer noted the RTA’s integration with Dubai’s institutional AI platform, leveraging big data for enhanced road network planning and service efficiency.

His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), expressed confidence in the retreat’s outcomes, aligning with the vision to make Dubai the most advanced and future-ready city. He highlighted the retreat’s role in showcasing futuristic visions and innovative projects that will accelerate AI adoption.

Strategic Goals and Economic Impact

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), stressed Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global leader in AI implementation. The city’s world-class AI ecosystem, supported by exceptional infrastructure and forward-thinking policies, is designed to integrate AI with both digital and traditional economic sectors, fostering innovation and creating an ideal environment for global businesses and talent.

Her Excellency Huda AlHashimi, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Strategic Affairs, emphasized the retreat’s role in presenting transformative projects that leverage AI and data to enhance government frameworks and drive innovation. This aligns with the UAE’s goal to be a global leader in innovative practices, ensuring sustainable success and quality of life improvements.

AI Retreat Agenda

The AI Retreat will feature panel discussions, high-profile roundtables, workshops, and activations focusing on key themes such as ‘Funding and Financial’, ‘Infrastructure’, ‘Data Enablement’, and ‘Talent Development’. The event aims to cement Dubai’s position as a global laboratory for AI development and adoption, benefiting humanity.

About Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence

Launched on April 29, 2024, this initiative supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aiming to generate an annual contribution of AED 100 billion to the new economy, making Dubai one of the world’s top three urban economies, and raising productivity by 50% through innovation and digital solutions.

The AI Retreat will be a pivotal event, showcasing Dubai’s commitment to AI governance, legislation, and its vision to become the world’s most future-ready city.