The United Arab Emirates is rapidly positioning itself as one of the world’s leading hubs for artificial intelligence (AI), combining bold government initiatives with groundbreaking private-sector projects. A recent US study ranked the UAE as the second-largest AI superpower globally, just behind the United States, highlighting its rise as a technology leader in the Middle East and beyond.
In Abu Dhabi, AI-powered traffic lights have been installed at seven major entry points to the city. These systems analyze road activity in real time, reducing congestion and improving overall flow—an innovation already making commutes smoother for residents. Meanwhile in Dubai, a new 24/7 fully automated Smart Police Station at Dragon Mart has become a model for how AI can transform public services, offering everything from crime reporting to community services without human staff.
At the national level, the UAE is taking bold steps in education. Starting from the 2025–26 academic year, AI will become a mandatory subject in public schools from kindergarten to Grade 12, taught by over 1,000 trained educators. The move aims to prepare the next generation with knowledge in data, ethics, and digital innovation.
Abu Dhabi also plans to become the world’s first AI-native government by 2027, with AED 13 billion allocated to digitize operations, automate services, and integrate AI into policymaking. The private sector is moving just as fast: Abu Dhabi’s tech giant G42 is diversifying global partnerships for its AI campus and expanding chip supply beyond Nvidia to ensure resilience.
With AI firms in Abu Dhabi growing by 61% in just one year, and new startups emerging every month, the UAE is not only embracing AI but also shaping how the world will use it. By embedding artificial intelligence into governance, education, and everyday life, the nation is setting a global standard for innovation.
