The Gulf Time Newspaper One of the finest business newspapers in the UAE brought to you by our professional writers and editors.
DUBAI / WAM
In line with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance its position as a global hub for developing future technologies, the UAE Government has launched the Chief AI Officers’ Training Programme.
Spearheaded by the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, the programme is held in collaboration with the University of Birmingham in Dubai. The initiative aims to upskill and empower AI leaders across federal government entities, ensuring sustained progress in adopting and developing smart solutions. It represents a strategic move to enhance government readiness, fast-track advanced technology integration, and reinforce the UAE’s global leadership in artificial intelligence.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, stated that investing in leadership is essential to building a sustainable and innovation-driven future.
“Empowering leaders with the right tools and knowledge drives a culture of positive transformation, fuels national ambitions, and empowers leaders capable of driving innovation and proactively shaping future opportunities,” he said. Al Olama added that the UAE Government remains committed to nurturing national talent and creating a competitive, innovation-led ecosystem rooted in technology and sustainable development, which are the key pillars that support the UAE’s vision for global excellence.
The two-week executive training programme combines academic theory with practical experience. It equips Chief AI Officers with a deep understanding of the latest AI trends, governance models, and sector-specific applications, empowering them to lead transformative projects within their respective entities.
The curriculum also covers ethical, regulatory, and technical considerations related to AI implementation, while fostering innovative thinking and strategic vision. Delivered by a world-class international experts and academics, the programme enhances dialogue between UAE AI executives and global thought leaders to exchange insights and best practices. Participants engage in intensive modules covering the fundamentals and frontiers of AI, including governance, generative AI, machine learning, big data, and economics of AI. Sessions also explore real-world use cases in key sectors such as health, cybersecurity, energy, urban development, government services, and entrepreneurship.
The Chief AI Officers were nominated following the UAE Cabinet’s approval, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to formally establish the role across federal ministries and government entities. Selection was based on candidates’ ability to navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape and their readiness to integrate AI into government operations.
This initiative aligns with the goals of the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the broader “We the UAE 2031” vision, which seeks to position the UAE at the forefront of global AI and digital transformation.