UAE shapes future with pioneering digital infrastructure, AI innovation

Time of India

28-04-2025

The UAE has established itself as a global leader in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) integration across government and private sectors, driven by innovative initiatives and significant investments in both infrastructure and skilled human resources.In 2017, the UAE government launched the "UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence," aiming to enhance government efficiency, develop a digital ecosystem, and position the country as a top investor in AI technologies by 2031. The strategy focuses on sectors such as transportation, renewable energy, education, health, and the environment.
This vision has resulted in the UAE leading in AI and blockchain adoption, making it a global frontrunner. The country has been the global leader for nine consecutive years in the fibre-to-the-home network coverage, reaching 99.5 percent of its total area.
It also ranked first in the world for mobile speeds and second for fixed broadband speeds during March 2025, according to Ookla reports, highlighting the strength of its digital infrastructure.
AI adoption has improved government services, with many being restructured using intelligent technologies, enhancing customer experiences and service quality. The UAE topped the Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII) as per the United Nations E-Government Survey 2024, reflecting its efforts to integrate AI for sustainable development.
Regionally, the UAE ranked first in the "Government AI Readiness Index" by Oxford Insights, excelling in government efficiency, technology sector development, and the availability of data and digital infrastructure.
This approach reinforces the UAE's leadership in shaping the digital future, with AI as a central element in government and private sector operations.
The InterRegional for Strategic Analysis noted that AI job growth in the UAE is outpacing other sectors, with roles in AI growing annually by 74 percent, according to LinkedIn.
Rob Van Dale, Partner and Digital Transformation Leader at Kearney for the Middle East and Africa, stated that the UAE has integrated AI as an "operating system" reshaping both the public and private sectors. He added that private sector responses to the UAE's AI initiatives include billions in investments from major companies.
Faisal Hamady, Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group, noted that the UAE has transitioned from AI adoption to large-scale implementation under a government-driven approach.
Ahmad Jamal, Regional Director of Artificial Intelligence Solutions at NVIDIA, highlighted that the UAE has moved beyond AI infrastructure investment to realising returns, being among the first countries to adopt a comprehensive AI strategy.
Hitendra Patel, Founder and CEO of the Global Innovation Management Institute, remarked that the UAE's rapid AI adoption sets a global standard, positioning the country as a leader in the digital future. (ANI/WAM)