Dubai raises AI drive by several notches

The initiative by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), to impart training in the use of AI and its applications for teachers in Dubai is noteworthy. The move seeks to equip teachers with the knowledge and vision to nurture a new class of learners who can make the most of technological advancements including AI.

The initiative, overseen by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), aligns with the goals of the recently launched Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence (DUB.AI). The top ten teachers who succeed in showcasing the most innovative approaches in adapting AI technologies to enhance educational outcomes will be recognised with awards totalling Dhs1 million during the next edition of the AI Retreat on 29th April 2025.

Sheikh Hamdan said, “We aspire to make Dubai’s schools the best educational institutions in the world at leveraging AI solutions. Teachers are the backbone of our nation’s progress and development and are key enablers in realising Dubai’s vision for the future.” He noted that education worldwide will witness radical changes with the introduction of new tools and unique learning environments based on augmented and virtual reality, as well as refreshed curricula supported by AI technologies in the coming years.

Earlier, Sheikh Hamdan activated the Dubai Urban Design Platform, powered by Artificial Intelligence, within a month. This unprecedented initiative aims to make Dubai one of the first cities in the world to adopt generative AI in designing its urban plan, creating a comprehensive vision for neighbourhoods and residential areas in partnership with the community. It also empowers individuals to envision the shape and form of their future city by adding new elements that meet their aspirations and elevate their expectations.

Dubai, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has become a global model in many respects. Driven by visionary leadership, this transformation prioritises the future and focuses on sustainable development and innovative solutions to enhance the life experience of the community as a whole.

The fact that Sheikh Hamdan has appointed 22 Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers across various government entities in Dubai, who will spearhead specialised plans and programmes in the field of AI and advanced technology, shows the earnestness of the drive to make Dubai be in the vanguard of AI technology.

Sheikh Hamdan said: “We have approved the appointment of 22 Chief AI Officers across government entities in Dubai as part of a forward-looking vision aimed at leveraging AI to enhance government operations. This initiative will enhance Dubai’s progress and expertise in this sector and consolidate its position as a leader in creating innovative solutions built on advanced technology.”

The accelerated adoption of AI, alongside the development of its tools and applications, represents a cornerstone of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aimed at positioning Dubai as a global hub for the development and deployment of AI solutions.

Last year, Matar Al Hemeiri, Chief Executive, Digital Dubai Government Establishment, Digital Dubai, announced the launch of ‘Dubai AI’, a generative AI-powered digital city concierge, during the Dubai Assembly for Generative AI.

Al Hemeiri revealed that the city-wide digital platform will offer comprehensive information and services, covering health, entertainment, business, and education, to all residents and visitors across the city.

Dr. Moza Suwaidan, Chief Executive, Digital Applications and Platforms Sector, Digital Dubai Government Establishment, Digital Dubai, explained that “the way we offer services will drastically change, and we have started today with Dubai AI. Our role in the future will be more focused on enablement and regulations as opposed to operating different services and systems.”