The UAE Cabinet has approved a new AI curriculum for students across all educational levels, marking a major step in the country’s education strategy. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the decision while chairing the Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi.

The meeting was attended by several senior UAE leaders. These included His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, was also present. Additionally, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the session.

A National Push for AI Education

Sheikh Mohammed described the UAE as a pioneer in building integrated learning programmes for artificial intelligence. As a result, the country has developed structured AI teaching plans that span every stage of schooling, from early education through to higher levels.

Furthermore, the Cabinet approved a mechanism to share this AI curriculum with ministries of education worldwide. This means countries around the globe can now benefit from the UAE’s experience in teaching AI to young learners.

The new AI curriculum will be implemented across all public and private schools in the UAE. Notably, a pilot programme has already been conducted. The evaluation showed positive results in public schools, paving the way for wider rollout.

What the AI Curriculum Covers

The AI curriculum focuses on several core areas. First, it introduces students to the technical foundations of artificial intelligence. Second, it builds awareness of ethical AI applications. Third, it strengthens understanding of AI data, algorithms, and associated risks.

In addition, the programme aims to prepare future generations with practical AI skills. Consequently, this reflects the UAE’s broader ambition to build a generation fluent in the tools of tomorrow.

Training Teachers Alongside Students

Alongside the student-focused curriculum, the Cabinet reviewed a programme to develop teachers’ AI capabilities. The initiative targets training for 22,000 teachers and educators. The goal is to help them use AI tools for teaching, assessment, curriculum analysis, lesson planning, and fostering innovation among students.

Sheikh Mohammed noted that technological change is reshaping education. Therefore, teachers must continue learning throughout their careers. As he put it, teaching children with yesterday’s methods risks depriving them of their future.

Broader Government Direction on AI

Beyond education, the Cabinet also approved the Cabinet AI Advisor system. This system uses 32 specialised AI advisors to analyse policies, assess impact, and support government decision-making around the clock.

Meanwhile, the UAE Government Annual Meetings, scheduled for 8 to 10 November, will review progress on AI adoption across government entities. This year’s theme centres on readiness and resilience.

Digital Transformation Results

The Cabinet also reviewed 2025 results for the UAE’s digital transformation. Federal entities completed more than 308 million digital transactions during the year. Additionally, 15.8 million government applications were downloaded across 1,633 digital services, with 92 percent customer satisfaction for priority services.

Globally, the UAE ranked first in telecommunications infrastructure, digital skills, and AI adoption indicators. It also placed in the highest tier of the global cybersecurity index.

Looking Ahead

Overall, the approval of a nationwide AI curriculum highlights the UAE’s continued focus on preparing its education system for the future. By combining student learning with teacher training and government-wide AI adoption, the UAE aims to strengthen its position as a global leader in artificial intelligence education.

Related post

View all