Latest news with #DigitalDubaiAuthority
Gulf Business
16-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Must know: 6 ways that the UAE is using AI to serve its people
Image credit: Supplied Artificial intelligence is at the heart of the UAE's government modernisation agenda. AI is projected to contribute nearly 14 per cent of the UAE's GDP by 2030, according to global estimates, and the nation is acting swiftly to unlock its full potential. The following six areas exemplify how the UAE government is already putting AI to work to reshape public services. Read- 1. Virtual assistants for round-the-clock public support AI-powered virtual assistants are increasingly present on government platforms, handling a wide range of citizen queries. These bots use natural language processing and machine learning to deliver instant, 24/7 support. From helping residents navigate forms to answering real-time questions, these tools reduce wait times and improve user satisfaction. Chatbots and avatars are active across various government ministries, streamlining service delivery and enabling human staff to focus on more complex, value-added issues. 2. Metaverse-based government offices In a regional first, the Ministry of Economy has launched a fully interactive metaverse office—a virtual replica of its headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Through this platform, users can attend meetings, network, and even sign legally binding documents, all from remote locations. This initiative combines convenience with innovation. Virtual ticketing, avatar-based interactions, and audio-enabled services create a next-generation user experience that showcases the UAE's commitment to accessible, always-on governance. 3. AI in urban planning and infrastructure development Dubai Municipality is deploying AI tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and geospatial analytics to revolutionize urban planning. These technologies enable smarter resource allocation, greener building design, and enhanced sustainability outcomes. By using AI to cut design times by up to 40 per cent and improve efficiency by 35 per cent, the municipality is leading the way in AI-driven city building. These efforts align with national sustainability goals and position Dubai as a model for smart infrastructure globally. 4. Predictive analytics for smarter service delivery The Digital Dubai Authority has pioneered data governance frameworks that underpin predictive AI models. These models analyze vast datasets to anticipate public service demands—from traffic flow to healthcare requirements—and guide real-time decisions. By moving from reactive to proactive governance, AI enables more effective resource distribution and personalized citizen engagement, thereby increasing trust in public services. 5. Automation of licensing and legal services The UAE's Legislative Intelligence Office is using AI to map national laws, monitor court rulings, and recommend legislative updates in real time. This could reduce policy drafting timelines by as much as 70 per cent. AI legal bots are also becoming increasingly accessible to the public. From helping residents navigate family law to linking with global legal standards, these tools ensure improved access to justice and more agile regulatory responses. 6. AI-Powered virtual employees supporting the judiciary 'Aisha', a generative AI assistant developed by the Ministry of Justice, is setting a new standard for legal support. It provides real-time legal advice, drafts court applications, and even generates multimedia explanations based on a deep legal knowledge base. Stationed in courts, Aisha supports both legal professionals and the public. Meanwhile, private companies such as Shaffra are deploying virtual employees to handle tasks like data entry and customer service, improving output and job satisfaction across sectors. 'Some clients report a 40 per cent increase in output after implementing AI solutions,' says Alfred Manasseh, COO & co-founder of Shaffra. UAE on its way to become a global leader in AI The United Arab Emirates has made its ambition clear: to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) by 2031. This vision, outlined in the national AI Strategy, is not merely aspirational—it is backed by structured initiatives, concrete objectives, and a robust multi-stakeholder approach to implementation. Aligned with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision, which aims to position the nation as the best country in the world by its 100th anniversary, the AI Strategy is a cornerstone of long-term national transformation. The UAE's multinational, tech-forward population forms a strong foundation for this transformation. As early adopters of emerging technologies, the country's communities are well-positioned to support, pilot, and scale AI innovations, attracting global talent to conduct research and drive implementation on UAE soil. 8 strategic pillars driving the UAE AI strategy The AI Strategy outlines eight core objectives that guide implementation across sectors: Build a reputation as an AI destination: Establish the UAE as a hub for AI development, research, and innovation. Increase competitive edge in key sectors: Apply AI to boost productivity and global competitiveness in priority industries. Create a fertile AI ecosystem: Encourage entrepreneurship, research collaboration, and innovation through enabling environments. Enhance customer services with AI: Leverage AI to improve citizen experiences and government efficiency. Attract and train AI talent: Develop a future-ready workforce capable of thriving in an AI-driven job market. Advance research collaborations: Link world-class AI research to the needs of critical national industries. B uild supporting infrastructure and data systems: Provide accessible data and smart infrastructure to test, scale, and refine AI solutions. Ensure strong governance and regulation: Uphold ethical AI practices with clear laws, data privacy standards, and regulatory oversight. Economic Impact: AI as a regional powerhouse According to a The Middle East is expected to claim approximately 2 per cent of this global AI dividend, equivalent to $320 billion by 2030. Notably, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading the regional AI charge: Saudi Arabia is projected to accrue $135.2bn in AI-related gains, accounting for 4 per cent of its GDP. The UAE is expected to see the largest relative impact, with AI contributing nearly 14 per cent of its 2030 GDP. This impressive growth—estimated at 20–34 per cent annually—is fueled by substantial investment in AI R&D, innovation infrastructure, and public-private collaboration. Both countries rank in the top 50 globally on the Global Innovation Index, a reflection of their focused efforts to become future-ready economies through advanced technologies. Looking ahead: A region poised for disruption AI is not just transforming how governments function—it's disrupting entire markets and reshaping business models. The current wave of digitization is only the beginning. With AI in play, tomorrow's regional leaders may be startups or companies that don't yet exist today. By setting a strong strategic foundation, the UAE is seizing its moment in the AI revolution. With the right nurturing, public policy, and innovation support, the nation could unlock even greater economic returns and establish itself as a global model for AI-driven transformation. In a world where technological evolution is constant, the UAE's proactive, inclusive, and far-sighted approach to AI stands as a bold blueprint for others to follow.
Hi Dubai
05-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Approves 2.35% Education Cost Index for Private School Fee Adjustments
Dubai's private schools may raise tuition fees by up to 2.35% in the 2025–26 academic year, following the approval of the Education Cost Index (ECI) by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The ECI, determined through an annual review of audited financial statements in collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority, reflects rising operational costs including staff salaries, support services, and rent. KHDA stated that the index is designed to help schools maintain high educational standards while managing resources efficiently. Only for-profit schools that have operated in Dubai for more than three years are eligible to apply for fee adjustments, and any increases must not exceed the 2.35% cap. Each application will be reviewed to ensure compliance with KHDA's criteria. Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA, said the ECI is part of a transparent and sustainable approach that aligns with Dubai's Education 33 Strategy. 'It supports schools in managing resources while meeting the expectations of students and parents,' she added. Dubai's private education sector continues to expand rapidly, with 15 new schools opening over the past two academic years and more than 20 applications currently under review. The emirate now has 227 private schools serving over 387,000 students from 185 nationalities. Student enrolment rose 12% in 2023–24 and a further 6% in 2024–25, reinforcing the emirate's position as a regional hub for quality education. The Education Strategy 33 aims to open at least 100 new private schools by 2033 to meet growing demand. News Source: Emirates News Agency
CairoScene
04-05-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Dubai Approves 2.35% School Fee Increase for 2025–26 Academic Year
Only private schools that have been operating in Dubai for more than three years are eligible to apply for the fee adjustment. May 04, 2025 Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has approved a 2.35% Education Cost Index (ECI) for the 2025–2026 academic year, allowing eligible for-profit private schools to apply for tuition fee increases up to this limit. The ECI, determined through an annual review of audited financial statements in collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority, accounts for operational costs such as staff salaries, support services, and rental expenses. Only private schools that have been operating in Dubai for more than three years are eligible to apply for the fee adjustment. All applications will be reviewed by KHDA to ensure compliance with the set criteria. This approach aims to support schools in managing resources while maintaining high-quality education standards. Dubai currently hosts 227 private schools serving over 387,000 students from 185 nationalities. The private education sector has seen significant growth, with a 12% increase in student enrolment during the 2023–24 academic year and a further 6% rise in 2024–25. 15 new private schools have opened in the past two years, and more than 20 applications for new schools are under review, aligning with the Education Strategy 33, which aims to open at least 100 new private schools by 2033.
Gulf News
02-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf News
Education Cost Index set at 2.35% for Dubai's for-profit private schools in 2025-26 academic year
Dubai: The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has approved an Education Cost Index (ECI) of 2.35% for for-profit private schools in Dubai for the 2025–26 academic year. The ECI is based on the annual review of audited financial statements submitted by private schools in collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority. It reflects the operational costs of running a school — such as staff salaries, support services, and rental expenses — while ensuring the delivery of high-quality education. KHDA has notified all private schools in the emirate of the requirements for submitting fee adjustment requests for the upcoming academic year. Applications to be reviewed Eligible for-profit schools may apply for a fee increase up to, but not exceeding, the approved ECI. Private schools operating in Dubai for less than three years are not eligible to apply. Each application will be reviewed by KHDA to ensure it aligns with established criteria. Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA, said: 'The Education Cost Index for fee adjustments is based on a robust and transparent methodology that supports schools in managing their resources while maintaining educational excellence aligned with the needs of students and parents.' She added that the approach reflects the Dubai Government's commitment to transparency and efficiency in education and supports the goals of the Education 33 Strategy, which aims to enhance Dubai's position as a global hub for quality education. New schools In the past two academic years, 15 new private schools have opened in Dubai. KHDA is currently reviewing over 20 applications for new schools scheduled to open within the next two years, offering families wide range of choices. Dubai now has 227 private schools, educating 387,441 students from 185 nationalities. The sector saw a record 12% increase in enrolment in 2023–24, followed by a further 6% growth in 2024–25, aligning with the Education Strategy 33's goal of opening 100 new schools by 2033.
Arabian Business
02-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai approves 2025-2026 private school fee hikes
Dubai will allow private schools to hike fees by up to 2.35 per cent next year, said the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. The KHDA approved an Education Cost Index (ECI) of 2.35 percent for profit private schools in the emirate for the 2025-26 academic year. The decision is based on the annual review of audited financial statements submitted by Dubai private schools, in collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority. Dubai school fees 2025-2026 The ECI takes into account the operational costs of running a school to offer a high quality of education, including staff wages, support services, and rental expenses. KHDA has informed all private schools in Dubai about the requirements for submitting fee adjustment requests for the next academic year. Eligible for-profit schools may apply for an increase up to, but not exceeding, the approved ECI. Private schools that have been operating in Dubai for less than three years are not eligible for a fee adjustment. All applications will be reviewed by KHDA to ensure they meet the criteria for fee increases. Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA, said: 'The Education Cost Index for fee adjustments is based on a robust and transparent methodology that supports schools in Dubai to manage their resources while maintaining a high quality of education in line with the needs of students and parents. 'This sustainable approach to regulating school fees reflects Dubai Government's commitment to transparency and efficiency in the education sector. It ensures that Dubai remains a leading destination for high quality education in line with the goals of the Education 33 Strategy.' Fifteen new private schools have opened in Dubai in the last two academic years, and KHDA is currently reviewing more than 20 applications for new schools set to open in the next two years, offering parents in Dubai a wider range of choices. Dubai currently has 227 private schools serving 387,441 students from 185 nationalities. The sector recorded an unprecedented 12 per cent increase in student enrolment in the 2023-24 academic year. Enrolment grew by a further 6 per cent during the 2024-25 academic year. The opening of new schools and steady enrolment growth in Dubai's private education sector support the objectives of the Education Strategy 33, which aims to open at least 100 new private schools by 2033.
