UAE embeds AI at the heart of new federal government strategy cycle

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the launch of a new strategic planning cycle for the UAE Federal Government, with artificial intelligence (AI) at its core.

As reported by the Dubai Media Office, the initiative places AI front and center in transforming government planning, streamlining processes, optimising resources, and enhancing financial efficiency, aligning with the broader objectives of the We the UAE 2031 vision.

His Highness affirmed, “We have launched the new strategic planning cycle for the Federal Government for 2031. This plan prioritises artificial intelligence in government planning, process simplification, resource optimisation, and enhanced financial efficiency.”

Related news: Sheikh Mohammed announces launch of ‘We The UAE 2031’

“While in the past government success was measured by regulatory strength and comprehensive procedures, today it hinges on regulatory agility, streamlined processes, and intelligent resource management, a significantly more complex undertaking. Tools and priorities change, but the unwavering commitment to serve the people of the UAE remains constant,” he added.

Smarter, shorter, and AI-powered

Marking a significant shift in how government strategies are conceived and executed, the planning cycle has been shortened from five years to three. The goal is to keep pace with rapid technological change and global shifts, ensuring greater flexibility and responsiveness.

Key federal bodies, including 38 entities, will align their strategies using proactive, AI-driven methodologies. The initiative mandates integration of strategic intelligence, smart forecasting, and big data analysis, allowing decision-makers to anticipate future challenges and act preemptively.

During a strategic workshop led by the Prime Minister’s Office at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, directors of strategy and finance from various federal entities explored how AI and advanced analytics can drive better decision-making. The updated cycle emphasises automation, predictive modelling, and integrated performance indicators tailored to real-world, real-time scenarios.

Strategic collaboration for smarter governance

The workshop reinforced the importance of collective intelligence and inter-agency coordination, fostering innovation and alignment with the national agenda. Participants examined how AI and digital tools can enhance performance, reduce red tape, and shift focus toward strategic projects rather than day-to-day administrative functions.

Her Excellency Huda Al Hashimi, Head of Strategy and Government Innovation for the UAE Government, stressed the importance of these technological shifts. She outlined the critical role federal entities play in transforming the 2031 Vision into impactful national initiatives. “The previous cycle saw the launch of major strategies like the National Cybersecurity Strategy and the National Investment Strategy,” she noted.

As part of the government’s digital transformation journey, the new model reflects the UAE’s aspiration to serve as a global benchmark for governance powered by AI, agility, and innovation.