New artificial intelligence and coding licence launched in Dubai

In collaboration with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Office, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) and coding licence.

The licence, which is a UAE first, will support the country’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031.

The DIFC Innovation Hub, which is the region’s largest cluster of fintech and innovation enterprises, will provide a stimulating environment for companies holding the licence. The Hub hosts over 500 firms, ranging from startups to global unicorns, representing over 60 per cent of GCC fintechs.

The licence provides an opportunity to obtain the UAE Golden Visas for employees working in those companies.

#DIFC announces the launch of the #AI and Coding License with @uaeai_2031, UAE. The license aims for the advancement of UAE’s #AI Strategy 2031 & enhancing its reputation in the field.

Read more: https://t.co/4pOrsxc2a4 pic.twitter.com/m1rzhGvjj0

— DIFC (@DIFC) March 1, 2022

Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, commented, “Such initiatives reflect positively on the country’s readiness to become a global destination for pioneering the future industries by adopting advanced technology stimulating innovation in various fields. The UAE Government is keen to support digital transformation processes that embody of the directives Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.”

“This is being achieved by developing digital activities and providing innovative solutions that improve governments’ performance and the lives of communities. DIFC has opened new horizons for leading global companies that aspire to enhance their efforts in AI and expand their businesses further.”

Essa Kazim, governor of DIFC, said, “Dubai and DIFC are global ambassadors for AI. Financial Services companies in DIFC and a broad spectrum of other industries across the emirate are setting the standard that contributes to the UAE’s ambitious goal to have an internationally competitive, knowledge-based economy.”

Coding is a game-changer, and currently, it is recognised as a necessary skill and a competitive advantage for a wide range of professional roles. Undoubtedly one of the most important talents to master for current and future generations, coding and programming help young students develop problem-solving abilities, such as solving an issue rationally and creatively.

The UAE has launched initiatives under the ‘Project of the 50’ aiming to attract 100 of the world’s best coders to the country – every day.

Meanwhile earlier this year, the UAE government also launched the Coders HQ, a new transformational project that re-defines local coding communities, in partnership with more than 40 companies in the UAE and around the world.

Read: UAE launches Coders HQ to empower local, global coding communities

The project, established in the Emirates Towers, aims to build a new generation of coders, enhance their capabilities and skills in coding and technology, empower them with tools and expertise, and provide them with the opportunity to design innovative solutions to address local and global challenges.