Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field of technology that has the potential to transform various sectors of the economy and society. In the UAE, AI is seen as a strategic priority and a key driver of innovation and development. The UAE has launched several initiatives and projects to foster AI research and applications, such as the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, and the Dubai AI Lab. The UAE aims to become a global leader in AI and leverage its benefits for economic growth, social welfare, and national security.

According to some estimates, the value of the AI market in the UAE is expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2026, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.2 per cent1. The AI market in the Middle East is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, with the UAE accounting for the largest share of the regional market. The UAE is also expected to see the largest impact of AI on its GDP, with a projected increase of 14% by 20302. The main sectors that are expected to benefit from AI in the UAE are healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, security, and others.

Some of the examples of AI applications in the UAE are:

Healthcare: AI is used to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, as well as to enhance patient experience and reduce costs. For instance, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) has introduced an AI-powered chatbot that can answer queries and book appointments for patients3.
Manufacturing: AI is used to optimize production processes, improve quality control, reduce waste, and increase efficiency. For instance, Emirates Steel has implemented an AI-based system that can monitor and control the steelmaking process in real time3.

Automotive: AI is used to enhance safety, performance, and convenience of vehicles, as well as to enable autonomous driving. For instance, Dubai Police has deployed an AI-based smart system that can detect traffic violations and accidents3.

Security: AI is used to improve surveillance, detection, and response to threats, as well as to protect critical infrastructure and data. For instance, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has launched an AI-based cyber defence centre that can monitor and protect its network from cyberattacks3.
AI is a powerful technology that can bring many benefits to the UAE, but it also poses some challenges and risks that need to be addressed. Some of the challenges include ensuring ethical use of AI, developing human capital and skills for AI, creating a conducive regulatory environment for AI, and ensuring data privacy and security. Some of the risks include potential job losses due to automation, social and economic inequalities due to unequal access to AI, and malicious use of AI by adversaries or criminals.

The UAE has taken proactive steps to address these challenges and risks by establishing a dedicated Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, creating a national council for AI governance, developing ethical guidelines and standards for AI, investing in education and training for AI talent, and collaborating with international partners and stakeholders on AI issues.

The UAE has demonstrated its vision and ambition for AI development and adoption. By harnessing the power of AI for good, the UAE can achieve its goals of economic diversification, social development, and national security.