Latest news with #ArtificialIntelligenceStrategy2031
Hi Dubai
2 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Launches Chief AI Officers Training Programme to Drive Tech Leadership
The UAE Government has launched an executive training programme for Chief AI Officers, marking a major step in strengthening the country's leadership in artificial intelligence and future technologies. Led by the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, the initiative is run in partnership with the University of Birmingham in Dubai. The programme aims to equip AI leaders across federal entities with advanced knowledge and skills to drive smart transformation across sectors. Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence Omar Sultan Al Olama said the programme reflects the UAE's commitment to investing in talent and building a tech-driven future. 'Empowering leaders with the right tools and knowledge fuels national ambitions and enables innovation,' he said. The two-week training blends academic theory with hands-on learning. Participants explore the latest AI trends, governance frameworks, and real-world applications in areas such as healthcare, cybersecurity, energy, urban development, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum also covers ethics, regulations, machine learning, and generative AI. Chief AI Officers were nominated following a UAE Cabinet decision led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Selection was based on candidates' ability to lead AI integration within their organisations and align with national strategic goals. Delivered by global experts, the programme also encourages dialogue between UAE officials and international thought leaders, creating space for exchanging insights and best practices. This initiative supports the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the broader 'We the UAE 2031' vision, reinforcing the country's position as a global hub for digital transformation and innovation. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE Government launches Chief AI Officers' Training Programme to enhance future tech leadership
1 June 2025 14:44 DUBAI (WAM)In line with the UAE's ongoing efforts to enhance its position as a global hub for developing future technologies, the UAE Government has launched the Chief AI Officers' Training by the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, the programme is held in collaboration with the University of Birmingham in initiative aims to upskill and empower AI leaders across federal government entities, ensuring sustained progress in adopting and developing smart represents a strategic move to enhance government readiness, fast-track advanced technology integration, and reinforce the UAE's global leadership in artificial Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, stated that investing in leadership is essential to building a sustainable and innovation-driven future."Empowering leaders with the right tools and knowledge drives a culture of positive transformation, fuels national ambitions, and empowers leaders capable of driving innovation and proactively shaping future opportunities,' he Olama added that the UAE Government remains committed to nurturing national talent, and creating a competitive, innovation-led ecosystem rooted in technology and sustainable development, which are key pillars that support the UAE's vision for global two-week executive training programme combines academic theory with practical experience. It equips Chief AI Officers with a deep understanding of the latest AI trends, governance models, and sector-specific applications, empowering them to lead transformative projects within their respective curriculum also covers ethical, regulatory, and technical considerations related to AI implementation, while fostering innovative thinking and strategic by a world-class international experts and academics, the programme enhances dialogue between UAE AI executives and global thought leaders to exchange insights and best engage in intensive modules covering the fundamentals and frontiers of AI, including governance, generative AI, machine learning, big data, and economics of AI. Sessions also explore real-world use cases in key sectors such as health, cybersecurity, energy, urban development, government services, and Chief AI Officers were nominated following the UAE Cabinet's approval, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, to formally establish the role across federal ministries and government was based on candidates' ability to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape, and their readiness to integrate AI into government operations. This initiative aligns with the goals of the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the broader "We the UAE 2031" vision, which seeks to position the UAE at the forefront of global AI and digital transformation.
Gulf Today
15-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Why startups must adapt to technological shifts
Startups today are no longer confined by location, and digital platforms such as social media and e-commerce empower even the smallest ventures to access global audiences overnight. For example, transformed from a local e-commerce site into a regional powerhouse before being acquired by Amazon. Similarly, fintech pioneer Tabby expanded into five countries within two years by leveraging cloud infrastructure. The digital age has truly rewritten the rules of entrepreneurship, creating an enterprising environment where innovation moves at lightning speed and borders dissolve into pixels. For startups, this era is a double-edged sword; offering unparalleled opportunities to scale and innovate, while demanding constant adaptation to survive fierce competition and market volatility. THE RAPID PACE OF TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE: Startups must constantly adapt to technological shifts, and rapid advancements in AI, IoT, and Web3 require founders to upskill continuously or risk falling behind. The digital marketplace is increasingly competitive, making differentiation a critical factor for success. Cybersecurity is another major challenge, and according to PwC's 2024 Global Digital Trust Insights survey, 36% of businesses reported data breaches exceeding $1 million, and 61% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) were targeted last year alone. Market saturation adds further complexity, especially in sectors like food delivery and fintech, where differentiation is essential. Additionally, navigating regulatory hurdles, such as GDPR and evolving data laws, demands legal expertise that many founders may lack. Success in this environment requires far more than just a great idea and necessitates strategic guidance and support. BUILDING A FUTURE-PROOF LEGACY: In this high-stakes environment, organisations that support entrepreneurship are important as they equip founders with invaluable knowledge, tools, networks, and learned resilience to turn digital disruption into a launchpad for success. The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center's (Sheraa) ecosystem approach mirrors the UAE's vision of fostering a knowledge-based economy. Its programs are designed to address every stage of a startup's journey, and mentorship from industry leaders helps founders refine agile methodologies. Cost-effective innovation further levels the playing field, and open-source tools and AI-driven solutions enable startups to compete with industry giants without requiring massive capital. Sheraa-backed ventures like DataFirst Solutions exemplify this shift, using advanced analytics to provide decision-makers with over 200 key performance indicators (KPIs) for optimizing revenue and operations. The centre's emphasis on digital literacy also compliments the UAE's Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, providing workshops on AI ethics and data governance to ensure startups not only adopt technology but do so responsibly. For instance, Sheraa alumni AR Engineering, which secured Dhs50,000 after winning the centre's 'Startup Pitch Competition', integrates reliable high performance Augmented Reality experiences and solutions to propel prototyping and other ventures. Speaking on the trajectory of the digital economy, Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, stated: 'Startups have proven to be initiators of innovation and economic transformation, especially when it comes to digital transformation; often creating entirely new industries to address new challenges and gaps in the market. 'At Sheraa, we empower these visionaries to harness the power of technology, navigate the complexities of digital transformation, and contribute to the benefit of communities and societies. As we continue to cultivate a thriving ecosystem where startups can turn challenges into opportunities, we are confident that they will redefine the future and open new paths to success.' Sheraa promotes a digital-first culture, encouraging startups to integrate digital technology as a core component of all aspects of business operations; fostering agility, innovation, and continuous learning, which are essential for success in the digital age.
Gulf Today
25-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
RTA launches AI strategy with 81 projects, initiatives
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has rolled out its Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2030 during Dubai Al Week 2025, which aims to strengthen RTA's global pioneership in AI-driven mobility by establishing an integrated, interconnected ecosystem that enhances the quality of life in Dubai. The strategy comprises 81 projects and initiatives across six strategic pillars: People happiness, seamless and innovative mobility, intelligent traffic management, cognitive licensing, future-proof organization, and asset excellence. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, stated: 'RTA's Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2030 is aligned with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, as well as local and federal initiatives, including RTA's sector-specific plans such as the Digital Strategy 2030. The strategy is designed to enhance human capital in the application and scaling of AI technologies, lead a connected AI ecosystem that promotes resilience and innovation, and firmly position RTA at the forefront of AI-driven transformation across its services, products, and operations.' He added: 'The strategy also establishes a robust corporate governance framework for AI while strengthening RTA's technical capabilities in AI and data to keep pace with rapid advancements in the field. In today's digital economy, big data and AI are foundational enablers of digital transformation. They are crucial for enhancing operational efficiency, enabling data-driven decision-making, and driving innovation across all sectors.' RTA chief Mattar Al Tayer (R) with the officials during the ceremony in Dubai on Sunday. File/WAM Al Tayer further noted: 'The strategy encompasses the implementation of 81 projects and initiatives between 2025 and 2030, structured around six key pillars: people happiness, seamless and innovative mobility, intelligent traffic management, cognitive licensing, future-proof organization, and asset excellence. It is designed to yield a range of measurable outcomes, most notably, reducing travel time by 20% to 30% through optimised traffic signal operations and intelligent pedestrian mobility solutions. The strategy also targets a 25% to 40% increase in productivity by equipping employees with AI-driven tools, and aims to reduce costs by 10% to 20% through AI-powered platforms supporting asset management, predictive maintenance, and driver assessment.' He continued: 'The strategy further aims to improve customer happiness by 35% and enhance partner compliance by 30% to 50%. RTA continues to lead in harnessing big data and artificial intelligence. Since the launch of its Big Data Platform in 2017, RTA has maintained its pioneering position in this field, introducing a joint Big Data and AI Roadmap (2021-2025), followed by the launch of a dedicated AI Platform in 2022 to support the efficient and scalable development of AI-driven applications.' Al Tayer explained: 'The Big Data Platform plays a pivotal role in managing and streamlining data exchange across RTA's corporate systems. Since its inception, the platform has recorded an annual growth rate of 30%, with total data capacity now exceeding 670 terabytes-the equivalent of more than 235 billion pages. It is integrated with 49 corporate systems and supports over 280 data points, enabling connectivity across diverse data sources within RTA's operations. The platform has facilitated more than 12 AI use cases and significantly enhanced the operational efficiency of our Enterprise Command and Control Centre.' Since 2017, RTA has implemented over 40 big data and AI use cases, including predictive maintenance for buses, sentiment analysis of passenger feedback, forecasting parking space occupancy, and integrating generative AI into our enterprize chatbot, 'Mahboub'. We are currently studying the implementation of 45 additional use cases, including optimising water and electricity consumption in the Dubai Metro and enhancing the public bus network using advanced AI technologies,' he stated. Awards and Achievements RTA has garnered distinguished recognition in the fields of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, achieving top rankings both locally and regionally. RTA was honoured as one of the pioneering government entity in the Artificial Intelligence and Data Science category of the 2024 Dubai Government Excellence Programme.
Hi Dubai
24-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
How AI & Automation Are Transforming Businesses in Dubai
Dubai's bold pursuit of technological excellence is a fast-evolving reality. Across every sector, artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are driving profound change, reshaping the way businesses operate, grow, and compete in one of the world's most dynamic economies. These technologies are not only streamlining internal processes but also redefining customer experiences, opening doors to new opportunities that were unimaginable a few years ago. Backed by forward-thinking government strategies like the UAE AI Strategy 2031 and initiatives under Smart Dubai, companies in the emirate are embracing everything from predictive analytics and intelligent robotics to automated logistics and AI-powered customer service. Whether it's a multinational corporation or a local startup, the pressure and potential to integrate AI and automation into business models is higher than ever. In this article, we explore how businesses in Dubai are adapting to this intelligent revolution, which sectors are leading the charge, what support systems are enabling this transformation, and what the future might hold as AI becomes a core pillar of the city's economic infrastructure. Why AI and Automation Matter for Dubai's Economy? Dubai's rapid embrace of AI and automation isn't an isolated trend—it's a national priority. The UAE's Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 laid the foundation by aiming to position the country as a global leader in AI, targeting sectors like transport, health, education, and energy. Dubai's own initiatives under Smart Dubai further accelerated the adoption of intelligent systems, setting the tone for a tech-driven economy. This strategic focus is more than futuristic branding. It's delivering measurable economic value. According to PwC, AI is expected to contribute up to AED 352 billion to the UAE economy by 2030, with Dubai poised to claim a major share thanks to its high-tech infrastructure and startup-friendly ecosystem. AI and automation technologies are helping businesses in the emirate to: Reduce operational costs by automating repetitive tasks like data entry, logistics tracking, and invoice processing. by automating repetitive tasks like data entry, logistics tracking, and invoice processing. Enhance decision-making through data-driven insights powered by machine learning and predictive analytics. through data-driven insights powered by machine learning and predictive analytics. Improve customer service using AI-powered chatbots, voice assistants, and intelligent CRM platforms. using AI-powered chatbots, voice assistants, and intelligent CRM platforms. Optimise supply chains via automation tools that forecast demand, manage inventory, and ensure real-time tracking. via automation tools that forecast demand, manage inventory, and ensure real-time tracking. Enable personalisation at scale, especially in e-commerce, hospitality, and finance sectors. Dubai's appeal lies in its readiness to adopt these technologies quickly. With over 90% internet penetration, smart government services, and active digital transformation in both the public and private sectors, businesses here are uniquely positioned to lead the next wave of innovation. How Dubai Businesses Are Using AI to Transform Operations AI and automation are no longer exclusive to tech companies—they're being adopted by businesses across Dubai, from family-run firms to regional giants. These technologies are helping companies optimise workflows, personalise services, reduce costs, and operate smarter at scale. Healthcare Providers Are Getting Smarter Clinics and hospitals across Dubai are using AI for early disease detection, patient data analysis, and appointment scheduling. Aster Clinics, for instance, use AI chatbots to triage patient needs before a human consult. Robotic surgery assistance and remote monitoring tools are also being used by private healthcare centers to increase accuracy and reduce recovery time. Logistics Firms Are Operating with Precision Companies like Aramex and Emirates Post have introduced automation in last-mile delivery using route-optimisation AI and warehouse robotics. DP World's Jebel Ali port uses automated cranes and predictive algorithms to manage global shipping traffic, helping reduce delays and operational costs. Retailers Are Delivering Per Experiences Brands such as Namshi, Carrefour, and even local boutiques are now using machine learning to analyse buying patterns, recommend products, and manage inventory. Self-checkouts, facial recognition for loyalty rewards, and chat-based shopping are examples of how Dubai's retail businesses are blending tech with convenience. Real Estate Companies Are Streamlining Processes Real estate firms like Emaar and Bayut are using AI for customer service, virtual tours, and even to match buyers with ideal properties based on behaviour patterns. Property management companies are introducing smart building systems that adjust lighting, climate, and maintenance schedules automatically, improving efficiency and tenant experience. Banks and Fintech Startups Are Offering Smarter Services Banks like Emirates NBD and fintech startups such as YAP are using AI for fraud detection, loan assessments, and predictive spending tools. Chatbots handle thousands of queries daily, while AI-backed robo-advisors help customers make investment decisions tailored to their financial goals. Hotels and Travel Businesses Are Enhancing Guest Journeys Hotels like Atlantis The Palm and Jumeirah Group are deploying AI tools for personalised service, from automating guest requests to optimising energy use in rooms. Online travel agencies are using algorithms to suggest tailored travel packages based on browsing and past bookings. Construction and Manufacturing Businesses Are Increasing Efficiency Local construction firms are using AI-powered drones for site surveys and progress tracking. 3D printing, championed by businesses like ACCIONA in Dubai, is being used for building prototypes faster and with less waste. This allows firms to finish projects on tighter deadlines and lower budgets. The Rise of Dubai's AI-Driven Startups and Business Innovators Dubai isn't just adopting AI—it's building it. A new generation of homegrown businesses is using artificial intelligence at the core of their operations, not as an add-on but as the engine of innovation. These startups and pioneers are helping Dubai position itself as a global AI hub while solving everyday business challenges. Derq – Making Dubai's Roads Safer with Predictive AI Founded out of MIT and now rooted in Dubai, Derq is using AI to address one of the region's most urgent urban challenges: traffic safety. Their platform turns real-time traffic data into life-saving alerts and optimisations. AI-driven systems predict potential collisions and send warnings to connected vehicles, improving driver awareness and reducing response times. Integrated with V2X (vehicle-to-everything) infrastructure, their technology enables smart intersections and smarter traffic flow. The result is fewer accidents, smoother commutes, and a new model for how cities can proactively manage urban mobility. Key2Enable – Designing Technology for Digital Inclusion Key2Enable is making digital spaces more accessible for people with disabilities. From its base in Dubai, the company develops tools that transform how users with motor challenges interact with computers. Its AI-enhanced keyboard, Key-X, enables individuals with limited mobility to use digital devices independently, opening new doors to education and employment. AI also personalises interactions, adapting to each user's capabilities and needs to ensure effective communication and usability. Their work demonstrates how thoughtful technology design, when powered by AI, can make empowerment a reality for all users, regardless of physical limitations. WakeCap – Bringing Real-Time Intelligence to Construction Sites WakeCap, a Dubai-born startup, is improving construction site efficiency through wearable IoT devices powered by AI. The goal: to turn one of the world's oldest industries into a more data-smart one. Workers wear smart helmets and badges that collect real-time data on site activity, safety compliance, and movement patterns. AI then analyses the data to identify inefficiencies, streamline schedules, and detect potential hazards before they become incidents. It gives site managers a live overview of workforce productivity and safety, significantly improving project timelines and minimising risks. Liv. by Emirates NBD – Redefining Banking with AI-Driven Personalisation Liv., the digital banking arm of Emirates NBD, is tailored to a generation that expects more than traditional banking—it expects personalisation, speed, and simplicity. Powered by artificial intelligence, Liv. delivers a banking experience that adapts to each customer's unique financial habits. The app uses machine learning to track and interpret spending behaviour, then generates customized budget breakdowns, financial insights, and savings suggestions that evolve with the user. AI is also used to deliver instant responses through smart chat assistants, handling customer service queries efficiently and consistently reducing dependency on call centres. Liv. proves how AI isn't just automating financial services but elevating them—by providing each user with a smarter, more intuitive way to manage money, without compromising convenience or control. – Making Multilingual Communication Human Again a fast-rising Dubai startup, is transforming how businesses communicate with international audiences through its cutting-edge AI voice translation platform. What sets it apart is its ability to replicate not only language but tone, pacing, and emotion. The platform uses advanced speech-to-speech AI technology to translate videos into 100+ languages while retaining the speaker's original vocal identity and expression. This has major implications across sectors—brands, media outlets, and educators can now localise content at scale, preserving authenticity without the cost or delay of studio dubbing. solution helps businesses connect globally without sounding generic, making cross-border communication feel personal and real, something essential in today's competitive content economy. Letswork – Using AI to Rethink Productivity and Space Letswork is not your average co-working space provider. It's a smart platform that offers freelancers, startups, and remote teams access to a network of co-working spaces across Dubai—many in unexpected places like hotels and cafés. AI powers much of its behind-the-scenes intelligence. The app learns from user behavior—preferred locations, peak working hours, seating choices—and offers personalized space recommendations accordingly. Venue partners receive detailed analytics powered by AI, helping them optimize layout, pricing, and services based on usage trends and customer feedback. In a city like Dubai, where flexibility and remote work are becoming the norm, Letswork is proving that AI can unlock hidden capacity in real estate and deliver convenience to a new generation of mobile professionals. Dubai's Government Is Accelerating the AI Shift for Businesses Dubai's transformation into an AI-powered business hub isn't happening by chance—it's backed by intentional government policies and infrastructure that actively support innovation. The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) , launched in 2023, is helping integrate AI across 33 government entities, offering a ripple effect that benefits private sector collaboration and tech adoption. , launched in 2023, is helping integrate AI across 33 government entities, offering a ripple effect that benefits private sector collaboration and tech adoption. The Dubai AI Lab , a joint venture between Smart Dubai and IBM, supports companies in deploying AI solutions in logistics, finance, and healthcare, providing testing environments and advisory support. , a joint venture between Smart Dubai and IBM, supports companies in deploying AI solutions in logistics, finance, and healthcare, providing testing environments and advisory support. Initiatives like the UAE National AI Strategy 2031 and Dubai Future Accelerators are opening doors for startups and corporates alike to co-create future-ready solutions, often with access to funding, mentorship, and pilot opportunities within the city's ecosystem. For businesses, this means a smoother path to AI integration—with fewer bureaucratic barriers, a culture that welcomes experimentation, and a government that leads by example. Businesses in Dubai are adopting AI not as a trend but as a strategic asset to speed up operations, cut costs, and better understand their customers. It's a business-first transformation with tech as the driver. And this shift isn't limited to tech giants or government-linked ventures. It's reaching startups, SMEs, logistics firms, banks, and retailers, transforming how businesses operate, make decisions, and deliver value. The early adopters are already gaining a competitive edge, proving that AI is not just a tool, but a mindset. For any business operating in Dubai today, embracing automation and AI is quickly becoming less of a differentiator and more of a necessity. The question is no longer if, but how well and how soon you'll adapt. Also Read: AI & Robotics in Dubai: Future Innovations & Tech Trends 2025 Learn how AI and robotics are revolutionizing Dubai's technology landscape with futuristic innovations, smart automation, and AI-powered solutions. How AI & Automation are Changing the Job Market in the UAE Discover how AI and automation are transforming the UAE's job market. From evolving industries to new career opportunities, explore how professionals can adapt and thrive in an AI-driven world. Dubai Emerges as a Rising Global Hub for Artificial Intelligence Dubai is solidifying its position as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI), driven by innovative projects, cutting-edge technology companies, and strategic public-private collaborations. AI Set to Become Even More Dominant in 2025 Within just three trading days of 2025, shares of major tech companies NVIDIA, Arm, and TSMC have already been observed to rise by 11%, 19%, and 11%, respectively.
