UAE Leads in AI and Advanced Technology

The UAE is reinforcing its position as a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced technology, driven by a forward-thinking vision focused on innovation and strategic global partnerships. As part of its ambitious goal to rank among the world’s top nations in this critical sector, the UAE has ramped up investments in AI and technology to secure a prosperous and sustainable future.

Global industry leaders highlighted the country’s strategic advancements in AI during interviews with the Emirates News Agency (WAM). Kiril Evtimov, Group Chief Technology Officer at G42 and CEO of Core42, emphasized the UAE’s prominent role in global AI development, comparing it to mature markets like the U.S. “The recent $1.5 billion investment by Microsoft in G42 underscores the UAE’s capacity to lead AI innovation in vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and energy,” Evtimov stated.

Evtimov also noted that the UAE ranks third globally in attracting AI experts, crediting its skilled workforce for driving the country’s digital transformation. “G42 plays a pivotal role, offering comprehensive solutions from advanced data centers to cutting-edge AI models for global clients,” he added.

Further underscoring the UAE’s leadership in AI, Evtimov discussed G42’s commitment to safe and responsible AI development. “With two new research centers launched in partnership with Microsoft and a collaboration with NVIDIA, we are addressing real-world challenges, positioning Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a global hub for AI innovation,” he said.

Jacob Chacko, Regional Director for the Middle East & Africa at HPE Aruba Networking, praised the UAE’s integration of AI across key sectors, driven by visionary leadership. “The UAE is a global leader in leveraging AI to drive development and innovation, enhancing quality of life and boosting economic growth,” Chacko said.

Ahmad Alkhallafi, Managing Director of Hewlett Packard Enterprise for the UAE and Africa, highlighted the UAE’s ongoing efforts to solidify its AI leadership. He emphasized that the UAE’s AI strategy aims to generate significant economic gains by 2031, with billions of dollars in investments fueling this growth. Alkhallafi added that these investments go beyond financial support, focusing on developing local talent and fostering AI research to promote sustainability and national innovation.

Hyther Nizam, President of Zoho Middle East and Africa, noted the UAE’s focus on unlocking AI’s potential through public-private collaboration, driving growth in this rapidly evolving field.

With its ambitious AI strategy and continued global partnerships, the UAE is positioning itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence and advanced technology, setting the stage for future innovation and growth.