Dubai is firmly on track to becoming a preferred global AI hub, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the government and private sector in rolling out initiatives to integrate deep technology into government operations and the social fabric.
HE Omar Sultan AlOlama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, stated at today’s AI Retreat that this partnership positions the city as a top destination for AI developers, startups, and companies worldwide.
“AI is not a future vision; it is our reality now. In Dubai, we operate with a long-term vision, much like our physical infrastructure development, which started in 1958 and reached global recognition by 2023. Similarly, our AI vision spans the next 185 years, starting today,” said HE AlOlama, encouraging the private sector to invest in AI from Dubai, benefiting from enabling legislation and a robust talent pool. “We invite the private sector to begin their AI journey here in Dubai, leveraging our forward-thinking legislation and abundant talent,” he urged.
Welcoming over 2,500 distinguished UAE leaders, AI experts, policymakers, government officials, and industry stakeholders to the iconic Museum of the Future and AREA 2071, the Minister emphasized Dubai’s commitment to AI.
The event, the largest of its kind globally, featured discussions on AI legislation, ethical use, and strategies to foster AI communities and talent. Participants also shared insights on implementing AI solutions to address local and global challenges.
HE AlOlama stressed the importance of adapting to this dynamic technology and urged using available tools to stay competitive in the global AI race. “We must continually adapt and leverage the tools to remain competitive. Falling behind is not an option,” he said.
He highlighted the UAE’s visionary leadership under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who aim to position Dubai as a proactive, future-oriented leader in AI. “The UAE’s leadership is committed to developing a leading, proactive model for Dubai, driving the AI conversation globally,” AlOlama added.
The Minister appointed 22 Chief AI Officers across Dubai’s government departments, selected for their skills to advance Dubai’s AI vision. Additionally, an initiative to train one million proficient engineers underscores the UAE’s commitment to developing essential skills for today and the future.
“These initiatives are not just about the skills for the next decade but about empowering individuals to elevate our nation’s capabilities today,” he noted.
HE AlOlama pointed out that the UAE ranks third globally in attracting AI talent relative to its population, after Luxembourg and Switzerland, and first in the region, a significant rise from 11th place in 2021, according to a LinkedIn and Stanford University report. The UAE also improved its global ranking for AI skills to 15th, up from 20th last year.
“Our leadership’s belief in the importance of talent has propelled the UAE to a top global position in AI talent attraction,” he remarked.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the inaugural AI Retreat gathered over 1,000 decision-makers, experts, and officials from government and private sectors and tech companies.
Discussions covered key AI challenges, including policies, governance, talent ecosystem, digital infrastructure, and AI data centers. The event provided a platform for open communication, sharing critical insights, creative ideas, innovative projects, best practices, and partnership opportunities to boost AI applications.
Participants engaged in deep discussions on the ethical use of AI and the best ways to convene AI communities and talent. They also explored practical solutions to implement AI applications for local and global challenges. “The AI Retreat has served as a critical platform for sharing insights, fostering innovation, and exploring partnerships to drive AI applications forward,” AlOlama concluded.
