UAE Strengthens Global AI Leadership with Strategic Investments

The UAE is reinforcing its position as a global hub for Artificial Intelligence (AI) through comprehensive strategies that drive innovation, investment, and regulatory advancements. With cutting-edge infrastructure and forward-thinking policies, the country continues to attract top AI talent and emerging startups.

AI is set to play a pivotal role in the UAE’s economy, with projections placing the country third globally—behind China and the US—in AI’s contribution to GDP. A PwC report estimates that AI will contribute approximately 13.6% to the UAE’s GDP, equating to around $100 billion by 2030. The country is also expected to lead the region in AI-driven economic growth, with contributions to regional economies projected to increase between 20% and 34%.

According to KPMG, the UAE’s regulatory framework fosters advancements in financial technology and digital payments while prioritizing cybersecurity through stringent data privacy laws. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi is setting a precedent by aiming to become the world’s first AI-powered government, implementing sovereign cloud computing at full capacity and automating government operations.

Industry leaders recognize the UAE’s AI vision. Nick Redshaw, Oracle’s Senior VP of Technology Cloud for MEA and UAE Country Leader, commended the country’s leadership for its bold AI strategy. Ahmed Gamal, Business Development Manager – NVIDIA AI Solutions at Advanced Integration, highlighted the UAE’s early adoption of AI, referencing its 2017 national AI strategy, which aims to establish the nation as a global AI hub by 2031.

The UAE’s commitment to AI is further reinforced through strategic partnerships with global tech giants like NVIDIA and Google, securing its status as a premier destination for AI investment. Experts, including Samer Al Jayyusi, Specialty AI & GenAI Regional Lead for CEE, Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa, emphasize the UAE’s balance of flexible regulations and ambitious investments, fostering both governance and innovation.

Dr. Akram Awad, Managing Director & Partner at Boston Consulting Group, noted the UAE’s rapid AI expansion, citing a 40% increase in AI professionals since 2022 as evidence of the country’s growing influence in the global AI landscape. With its robust digital ecosystem and forward-thinking policies, the UAE is poised to remain at the forefront of AI development and economic transformation.