Dubai — Government entities should pursue a common strategy to enhance collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), said Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications.
“Government entities must be thoroughly prepared for technological advancements that will change how they operate and provide services. A high level of future readiness is essential to meet the needs of stakeholders and capitalize on the opportunities that arise from rapid AI development,” he added.
Al Olama spoke at the Dubai Center for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), which convened representatives from 33 Dubai government entities to promote collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation in AI.
The AI Majlis, a part of a series of gatherings for leaders in AI adoption among government entities, focused on the technology’s key global trends, emerging opportunities, and strategies that will shape the future of AI in the Dubai government, achieving the DCAI’s key objectives.
The Center was launched in June 2023 by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation, with the aim of positioning Dubai as a world leader in adopting AI in public sector work.
Participants highlighted the importance of collaboration in developing legislation and regulatory frameworks that support the integration of AI into government systems. These frameworks are crucial for enhancing the flexibility, efficiency, and capacity of government entities to develop innovative services.
The meeting also emphasized the significance of knowledge exchange among government entities and the need to support young talents in AI. Participants stressed the need to foster a culture of innovation and creativity, encouraging individuals to explore new ideas for using AI in their work.
The DCAI recently concluded an accelerator program for 30 companies from 13 countries. These companies collaborated in AREA 2071 over eight weeks to develop more than 300 projects. These projects utilized AI to address over 100 different challenges presented by 33 of Dubai’s government entities.
Additionally, the Center announced that 72 collaborative AI projects would be developed in cooperation between government agencies and companies participating in the program. The program is divided into two tracks: the future of government services and the future of media and communication services.
DCAI aims to assist Dubai government entities in utilizing future technologies to enhance their future readiness. The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Government of Dubai Media Office, and the Dubai Digital Authority are overseeing DCAI’s initiatives along with various stakeholders.
Their focus includes developing legislation related to AI, implementing strategies for its adoption, attracting the best global solutions, and supporting promising national talents.