By Mary Adole, Nigeria
While some parts of the world still approach Artificial intelligence with some level of skepticism, the United Arab Emirates had gone ahead to explore all the possibilities that are found and setting the pace for the world in AI technology. With the AI Ministry formed in 2017 to organize strategies for an effective AI program in the long term, the technology has found expression in many fields, including the health sector, where it is used to win the fight against the covid pandemic.
Formally founded in 1956, AI has re-defined as the ability of machines to understand, think, and learn in a similar way to human beings. From then on, considerable research and testing have validated the ability of inanimate objects to perform human functions efficiently. The field of AI has witnessed progressive growth, with so much still in the offing.
According to a report published by the McKinsey Global Institute in 2018, artificial intelligence can boost global output by 16 percent, or $13 trillion by 2030.
In addition, as shown in a 2018 forecast from the World Economic Forum, AI and related fields would provide approximately 133 million new employment by 2020.
As the fourth industrial revolution continues to unfold, it is evident that AI, alongside other related fields like Robotics, IoT, and machine learning, will play significant roles in the global economy, and it is easy to see why the UAE is making tremendous strides at diversification.
Since 2017, when the state established AI ministry to facilitate a long-term goal to become a world leader in AI technology by 2030, the UAE has ranked at the top in terms of artificial intelligence technology competence.
One of the best ways a country can secure its existence for upcoming generations is to invest in its educational sector, equipping young people with relevant skills for the years ahead. The UAE’s Centennial 2071 project aims to make the country the best in the next 50 years, and one of its core focus is to inculcate advanced science and technology into the educational sector.
To do this, UAE has partnered with technology companies to integrate its digital education programs in several significant schools across the country. Not only does it aim to cut costs and increase interest in education, but the integration of AI in the educational sector will also foster innovations and prepare graduates for the myriads of opportunities available in the industry.
Recently, Thales and Subborne University in Abu Dhabi partnered together to empower students in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics professions as part of their commitment to advance the UAE government’s digital transformation objectives.
UAE is winning against the global pandemic because it started early to implement technology in the health system, something most countries are yet to achieve. The aim has always been to minimize chronic and dangerous diseases by analyzing data to identify genetic information that would make someone prone to a particular disease.
In March 2021, the Dubai health authority announced plans to explore remote-patient monitoring by collaborating with a Dubai-based startup specializing in artificial medical intelligence (AI). This medium is one of the ways that technology is leveraged during the pandemic. Also, the DHA has outlined plans to use AI and robotics to automate surgeries and other procedures.
AI is also playing a crucial role in controlling the spread of Covid in the country. The ‘Oyoon‘ program launched by the UAE government helps to reduce the movement of Dubai residents by monitoring the permits of residents who leave their homes by using facial, voice, and license plate recognition.
In 2017, Abu Dhabi airport introduced a smart-travel system through AI and big data to help streamline passengers’ journey across the airport, from check-in and immigration counter staffing to passenger arrival and departure times.
According to Shareef Al Hashmi, the Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, the innovation was part of its commitment to delivering a “truly superior and seamless passenger experience,” a goal that rightly reflects that of the United Arab Emirates to lead in technological innovations.
In addition, the UAE aviation authority has also deployed automated robots in airports to detect the faces of suspected criminals.
In Dubai alone, there are over 78 AI startups registered as of April 2020, with each one receiving considerable support from both the government and private individuals.
In conclusion, innovations in artificial intelligence have only left much to be desired, and the UAE has only scratched the surface. With a government commitment to adapting the country to technological advancement for continued growth, there are certainly no limits to what can be accomplished in the coming years.
Mary Adole is a Nigerian native. She is a creative writer with a Mass Communication diploma.
