Ahmad Jamal, Regional Director of AI Solutions at Advanced Integration, a strategic partner of NVIDIA, affirmed that the UAE has made significant progress in establishing itself as both a regional and global hub for artificial intelligence (AI).
The UAE’s Leadership Commitment to Innovation
He noted that the UAE has successfully transitioned from the phase of investing in infrastructure and technologies.
As it is now achieving tangible economic and technological returns.
On the sidelines of Dubai AI Festival, Jamal highlighted the launch of the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.
This strategy aims to increase AI’s contribution to the national GDP by 14%.
It is an ambitious goal that reflects the country’s real transformation toward a knowledge-based economy.
It also showcases the visionary leadership’s commitment to innovation.
He further explained that Abu Dhabi government is working toward implementing AI applications across 100% of government entities. Reinforcing its position as a pioneer in AI adoption and digital transformation.
The UAE Progress in Using AI Across Different Sectors.
The UAE isn’t just talking about AI — it’s building strategies, investing heavily, and actually applying AI across industries.
It aims to become a world leader in AI by integrating it into daily life, governance, and business.
While also boosting its contribution to the GDP.
Let’s explore where and how AI is being used:
1. Government Services
- Smart city services
- Predictive governance
- Public safety
Examples:
- Dubai’s Smart Police Stations (SPS): Operate 24/7 with no human staff, using AI for case filing, paying fines, and reporting crimes.
- TAMM in Abu Dhabi: Uses AI-powered chatbots to guide users through 700+ government services.
2. Healthcare
- Early diagnosis
- Predictive health analytics
- Robot-assisted surgeries
Examples:
- SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services): Uses AI for patient triage and to predict disease risks.
- Mubadala Health: Invests in AI platforms that help doctors analyze radiology scans faster and more accurately.
3. Aviation and Transport
- Smart mobility
- Predictive maintenance
- Autonomous vehicles
Examples:
- RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) in Dubai: Uses AI for traffic flow management, route planning, and is testing autonomous taxis with Cruise (a GM-backed company).
- Emirates Airlines: Uses AI to improve customer service, optimize aircraft maintenance schedules, and enhance baggage handling.
4. Banking and Finance
- Fraud detection
- Personalized banking
- Customer service automation
Examples:
- Emirates NBD: Uses AI for facial recognition in ATMs and AI chatbots to assist with online banking.
- ADIB (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank): Offers financial recommendations using machine learning.
5. Education
- Personalized learning
- Student performance tracking
- Virtual tutors
Examples:
- Mohammed bin Rashid Smart Learning Program: Uses AI to tailor learning experiences based on student progress.
- Khawla AI Tutor: UAE-developed AI assistant designed to support school students with homework and revision.
6. Smart Cities & Infrastructure
- Energy efficiency
- Waste management
- Water usage monitoring
Examples:
- Masdar City (Abu Dhabi): A model smart city that integrates AI for energy usage, water recycling, and autonomous mobility.
- DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority): Uses AI to forecast demand and optimize distribution.
7. Security & Defense
- Surveillance
- Threat prediction
- Cybersecurity
Examples:
- AI-powered surveillance systems in airports and public spaces to identify threats in real time.
- UAE Cybersecurity Council uses AI to detect and respond to digital threats proactively.
The UAE sees permanent progress in AI as a pillar of its future economy.
Its approach is not just about importing tech, but developing homegrown talent and solutions, as seen with initiatives like:
- Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI)
- The National AI Program
- Strategic partnerships with companies like NVIDIA, IBM, and Google
