The United Arab Emirates has established itself as a global leader in the artificial intelligence sector, having launched numerous strategies, initiatives, and programs that anticipate the future of the industry and keep pace with its changes and developments. Dubai has experienced rapid growth in the sector, positioning itself as a global gateway to the future of artificial intelligence. The UAE leads Arab countries in terms of the contribution of artificial intelligence to the gross domestic product, with projections indicating that the sector will account for 14% of GDP by 2030, according to a study from Heriot-Watt University Dubai. Artificial intelligence is expected to contribute approximately $96 billion to the nation's economy by 2030, according to a report from PricewaterhouseCoopers.
A report from Bloomberg highlighted that the UAE is accelerating its efforts to build artificial intelligence capabilities and prepare the largest data centers to support technology in the region, emphasizing that the UAE places "artificial intelligence" at the core of its economic future. According to a report published earlier this month, a strategic investment between G42 and Microsoft worth $1.5 billion will enhance the country's position as a leading global hub for artificial intelligence, opening more opportunities for partners and customers for innovation and growth.
In Dubai, there has been an accelerated growth in investment in artificial intelligence, stemming from a vision developed over decades. The emirate began this journey by establishing Dubai Digital in 1999, which marked a significant shift in Dubai's history, evolving from a comprehensive vision to electronic, digital, and now to artificial intelligence.
The emirate has solidified its digital twin approach through initiatives, strategies, and plans aimed at ensuring its global standing in the digital sector. Among these efforts is the creation of a Chief Executive Officer position for artificial intelligence in every government entity in Dubai as part of the first phase of the annual Dubai plan, the launch of the Dubai Incubator for AI companies, and "Web 3," which will represent the largest assembly of artificial intelligence and technology companies to attract innovators from around the globe, startups, and industry leaders.
Several officials from global companies praised Dubai's plan to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence in statements to Emirates News Agency (WAM), alongside various initiatives such as the Dubai Incubator for AI Companies, the International Artificial Intelligence Challenge, and the AI Retreat, as well as a million experts for AI commands.
Nick Brittingham, Head of Advanced Engineering at Palantir, stated, "The UAE possesses a conducive and attractive environment for promising investments in artificial intelligence," noting that Dubai has significant ambition and influence that benefits global companies. Similarly, Karim Beguir, Co-Founder and CEO of InstaDeep, mentioned that the UAE is one of the first Arab countries to effectively lead efforts to harness artificial intelligence technologies, viewing the sector as a strategic opportunity for government operations.
Dev Turakhia, Founder of D2 International Holdings, pointed out that Dubai recognizes the importance of integrating artificial intelligence effectively as a tool that enhances efficiency and improves productivity metrics, ultimately contributing to the quality of human life. Additionally, Martin Avetisyan, Founder of (4x) and AI investor, emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence for individuals and organizations to positively impact community lives, asserting that Dubai serves as a global model for leveraging new AI applications and providing opportunities for companies by offering the necessary tools in a supportive environment.
