UAE Emerges as Global AI and Innovation Leader

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has hailed the UAE’s emergence as a global leader in innovation, advanced technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

At a special meeting held at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, His Highness emphasised the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development and investment in Emirati talent, which is propelling the country towards global leadership in government operations and AI. During the event, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed met with Chief AI Officers from the UAE government and honoured the 2023 graduates of the UAE Government Leaders Programme.

“This progress stems from a forward-looking vision that embraces sustainable development and empowers Emirati individuals to lead change, elevate government work, and take it to advanced stages,” H.H. Sheikh Mohammed said. He further stressed the importance of modernising government operations to make the UAE a global benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and future-readiness.

The event was attended by several high-profile leaders, including H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During the meeting, Chief AI Officers were appointed across ministries and federal entities, following the Cabinet’s approval of the new “Chief Executive Officer for Artificial Intelligence” role.

His Highness underlined that investing in human capital is a key strategy for securing the nation’s future: “Investing in our people is an investment in our future. By nurturing Emirati minds and talent, we’re securing a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.”

The introduction of Chief AI Officers is a strategic move to enhance AI solutions and applications in government operations, aligning with the UAE’s “We the UAE 2031” vision, which aims to position the nation as a global leader in AI, digital technology, and sustainable development.