Dubai: Sheikh Hamdan appoints 22 AI chiefs across government institutions

As part of Dubai’s ambitious plan to become the world’s most future-ready city, with AI at its foundation, the emirate has announced the appointment of ‘AI champions’  to lead the integration of AI across government sectors.

The emirate has appointed 22 chief artificial intelligence officers (CAIOs) across various government entities.

The appointments were announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, who underscored Dubai’s commitment to developing a pioneering model for AI-enabled government operations, as reported by the state news agency, WAM on June 9.

“This initiative will enhance Dubai’s progress and expertise in AI and solidify its position as a leader in creating innovative solutions built on advanced technology,” said Sheikh Hamdan.

The CAIOs will spearhead specialised plans and programmes to integrate AI across their respective departments.

Their appointment aligns with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence (DUB.AI), a comprehensive strategy to leverage AI to improve resident wellbeing and robust governance.

“The appointment of these chief AI officers marks the initial phase towards realising our vision for the future of government work, in line with DUB.AI,” stated Sheikh Hamdan. “Their commitment is crucial in turning our ambitious plans into concrete actions that will shape the future of AI-enabled government operations in Dubai.”

Today we approved the appointment of 22 Chief AI Officers in government entities in Dubai as part of a future-driven vision focused on utilizing AI in government work. This move will support Dubai’s journey and expertise, and transform its horizons in developing innovative… pic.twitter.com/rxLdA3EcGx

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) June 9, 2024

DUB.AI: A roadmap for AI leadership

DUB.AI aims to solidify Dubai’s position as a global hub for AI governance and adoption across strategic sectors.

This initiative has supported Dubai’s ranking among the top 10 countries in the Global AI Readiness Index.

The newly appointed CAIOs represent a diverse range of government entities, including:

• Community Development Authority
• Dubai Government Human Resources Department
• Dubai Customs
• Dubai Police
• The Judicial Council
• Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
• Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment
• Dubai Electricity and Water Authority
• Digital Dubai Authority
• General Directorate of Civil Defense in Dubai
• Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment
• Dubai Health Authority
• Public Prosecution
• Protocol Department in Dubai
• Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority
• Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
• Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University
• Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism
• Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services
• Department of Finance in Dubai
• Endowments and Minors’ Trust Foundation (Awqaf Dubai)
• Dubai Municipality