Under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision to establish Dubai as a global technology leader, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has unveiled the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, as reported by the state news agency WAM. The annual plan aims to utilise technology’s potential to improve the quality of life across various sectors.
Sheikh Hamdan stated, “In 1999, Dubai embarked on its journey towards the future by initiating its digital transformation initiative, which has since achieved significant milestones, culminating in the recent introduction of the Dubai Digital Strategy last year. We have achieved remarkable feats that have positioned Dubai as the primary hub for billion-dollar global enterprises in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors within the region.”
He continued, “To further Dubai’s global leadership, we are launching Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence today to expedite the adoption of artificial intelligence applications. This will help achieve the targets of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), contributing Dhs100bn annually to Dubai’s economy through the digital economy and increasing the economy’s productivity by 50 percent through the adoption of innovative digital solutions.”
“The initial phase of the plan for this year will involve appointing a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer in every government entity in Dubai, launching AI and Web3 incubators, and announcing an AI Week in educational institutions. Additionally, land allocation for data centres will be expedited, and a new commercial license for artificial intelligence will be introduced.”
He stressed that the primary objective of the plan is to ensure the well-being of Dubai’s citizens and residents. “We will annually review, update, and launch new projects to ensure that the plan keeps pace with all developments. Dubai is a city focused on humanity, and we will utilise all our capabilities to make our society the happiest in the world,” he concluded.
Key highlights:
- Strategic vision: Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the plan’s alignment with Dubai’s digital transformation journey, showcasing a commitment to innovation and leveraging AI to shape a brighter future.
- Focus areas: The plan targets sectors crucial for Dubai’s progress, with a strong emphasis on economic growth, technology utilisation, and advanced applications adoption.
- Initiatives: Dubai aims to appoint Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers in government entities, launch AI and Web3 incubators, and introduce an AI Week in educational institutions.
- Commercial license: A new commercial license for AI will be introduced. It will facilitate investment and attract global talent to support Dubai’s position as a tech and innovation hub.
- Infrastructure development: Land allocation for data centres will be expedited to support foreign investments and enhance Dubai’s digital infrastructure.
As part of the first phase, Dubai is set to inaugurate its AI and WEB3 Incubator. It will establish the largest hub for AI and technology companies. It aims to attract innovators, startups, and AI frontrunners from across the globe.
