The UAE will introduce an AI and robotics-powered system to screen work permit applicants from May, as part of a broader push to enhance labour market efficiency and attract highly skilled professionals.
How the New AI Work Permit Screening System Works
The initiative is being implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
The system uses data-driven technologies to assess applicants across a range of criteria including education, professional experience, technical skills, and overall competencies. By automating key stages of the assessment process, the platform is expected to streamline approvals and reduce administrative inefficiencies while improving the quality of hiring decisions.
Authorities said the system introduces more structured and objective evaluation mechanisms, designed to align workforce capabilities with the evolving needs of the UAE economy.
Part of the UAE's Wider Agentic AI Strategy
The UAE AI work permit screening rollout connects directly to the broader Agentic AI framework introduced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which outlines the adoption of AI systems capable of analysing data, generating recommendations, and executing tasks with limited human intervention.
Under that framework, the UAE aims to transition 50 percent of federal services, operations, and processes to AI-driven systems within the next two years, making it the first government in the world to operate at this scale through autonomous systems.
Officials confirmed the work permit screening system is aligned with this strategy and will contribute to the UAE's long-term ambition to build a knowledge-based economy.
Oversight and Phased Rollout
Oversight of the initiative will be led by a dedicated taskforce headed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and chaired by Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs. Government entities will be assessed based on the pace and effectiveness of AI adoption as implementation progresses.
The deployment will follow a phased approach across ministries and federal entities, with ongoing performance monitoring expected to guide further expansion.
The move is also intended to strengthen the UAE's position as a global destination for specialised talent, particularly as international competition for skilled professionals continues to intensify.
