Sign Up

    UAE strengthens position as global leader in AI through strategic investments, partnerships

    The country ranks third worldwide in attracting AI experts, with a strong emphasis on cultivating a skilled workforce to drive digital transformation

    The UAE is enhancing its global leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced technology, motivated by a vision for innovation and international collaboration, with the goal of becoming one of the world’s leading nations in this critical sector.

    To secure a prosperous and sustainable future, the UAE has significantly increased its investments in AI and technology, establishing global partnerships that align with its vision where technology and AI serve as foundational pillars, as noted by international business leaders in an interview with Emirates News Agency (WAM).

    Focus on talent development

    Kiril Evtimov, group chief technology officer at G42 and CEO of Core42, emphasized that the UAE is at the forefront of global AI advancements, competing alongside established tech markets like the U.S. He highlighted Microsoft’s recent $1.5 billion investment in G42 as a testament to the UAE’s capacity to lead AI development and implementation in essential sectors such as healthcare, education, and energy.

    Also, he pointed out that the UAE ranks third worldwide in attracting AI experts, with a strong emphasis on cultivating a skilled workforce to drive digital transformation. He stated that G42 plays a pivotal role by providing comprehensive solutions, ranging from advanced data centers to innovative AI models for clients around the globe.

    Commitment to responsible AI

    Evtimov underscored G42’s commitment to safe and responsible AI development aimed at societal benefit, mentioning the launch of two new research centers in partnership with Microsoft and a collaboration with NVIDIA. In addition, he noted these efforts focus on addressing real-world challenges, positioning Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a global hub for AI innovation.

    Transformative impact of AI

    Jacob Chacko, regional director for the Middle East & Africa at HPE Aruba Networking, remarked that the UAE stands as a global leader in leveraging AI for development and innovation. Moreover, he attributed this success to the country’s visionary leadership, which has effectively integrated AI across key sectors, thereby improving quality of life and stimulating economic growth.

    Read more: WGS 2024: UAE AI Office partners with Emirates Global Aluminium to accelerate AI adoption in industrial sector

    Economic gains from ai investments

    Ahmad Alkhallafi, managing director of Hewlett Packard Enterprise for the UAE and Africa, mentioned that the UAE is solidifying its leadership in AI on a global scale, driven by its ambitious leadership and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, he noted the significant investments being made in AI, which aim to achieve substantial economic benefits by 2031.

    Alkhallafi emphasized that the UAE’s investments in AI extend beyond financial aspects, focusing on nurturing local talent and supporting AI research while promoting sustainability and growth. Moreover, he explained that these initiatives integrate AI across critical sectors such as education, healthcare, transportation, and energy, enhancing performance, operational efficiency, and national innovation.

    Collaboration for future growth

    Hyther Nizam, president for the Middle East and Africa at Zoho, stated that the UAE is committed to unlocking the potential of AI. Furthermore, he indicated that this effort requires significant investments and collaboration between the public and private sectors, which the country is actively pursuing to foster growth in this promising field.

    This article is from Economy Middle East