Sheikh Hamdan reveals Dubai’s ‘Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence’

In line with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision to position Dubai as a global technology leader, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, unveiled the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, reported state news agency WAM.

The yearly plan aims to harness technology’s potential to enhance quality of life across sectors.

Sheikh Hamdan said, “In 1999, Dubai commenced its journey towards the future by launching its digital transformation venture, which has continued to achieve major milestones leading to the recent unveiling of the Dubai Digital Strategy last year. We have realised record-breaking accomplishments that have established Dubai as the premier hub for billion-dollar global enterprises in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors within the region.”

He added “To enhance Dubai’s global leadership, today we launch Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence applications, which will achieve the targets of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) by 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.”

In 1999, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum initiated the pioneering journey of the future by launching Dubai’s digital transformation, a venture that has continued to achieve milestones leading to the recent unveiling of the Dubai Digital Strategy last year. We… pic.twitter.com/Z9XI9Z8ONP

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) April 29, 2024

“Through the first phase of the plan for this year, we will work on appointing a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer in every government entity in Dubai, launch AI and Web3 incubators as well as announce an AI Week in educational institutions. Land for data centres will be fast tracked, and a new commercial licence for artificial intelligence will be introduced.”

He emphasised that the key goal 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 whose focus is humanity, and we will harness all our capabilities to make our society the happiest in the world,” he said.

Key highlights

Strategic vision: Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the plan’s alignment with Dubai’s digital transformation journey, reflecting 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, facilitating investment and attracting global talent to support Dubai’s position as a tech and innovation hub.
Infrastructure development: Land allocation for data centers 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 to establish the largest hub for AI and technology companies, with the objective of attracting innovators, startups, and AI frontrunners from across the globe.

AI roadmap for the future

Governance and legislation: Dubai plans to lead in AI governance and legislation, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and attracting top talent.
Government operations: AI tools will be integrated into government projects to enhance performance and service delivery, ensuring Dubai remains at the forefront of innovation.
Strategic partnerships: The plan aims to forge partnerships with AI companies and global talent, facilitating business operations and advancing technological capabilities.

Economic objectives

The plan seeks to bring in Dhs100bn annually to Dubai’s economy through digital transformation projects, supporting the D33 Agenda’s objectives.

Dubai aims to solidify its position as a global hub for the digital economy, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth. The city currently ranks first globally in foreign direct investment in artificial intelligence, first in the Middle East in technology entrepreneurship, and seventh globally in readiness for artificial intelligence applications, as per a WAM report.

Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence underscores the city’s commitment to leveraging technology for societal progress and economic prosperity.

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