UAE sets global benchmark for AI-driven, future-ready education, say experts
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Artificial intelligence has been redefining education in the UAE, with students reaping the benefits of personalised learning and hands-on technology skills that ultimately prepare them for careers of the future, experts have said. Digital innovations are woven into curricula at every level - from primary education through university - equipping young learners with the competencies needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce. 'The UAE is at the forefront of reshaping education through AI,' said Geoffrey Alphonso, CEO of Alef Education, an Abu Dhabi-based provider of tech-powered learning solutions that are widely used in the country.
'With the recent implementation of a nationwide AI curriculum across public schools from kindergarten through Grade 12, AI is now a practical and transformative force in classrooms - not a distant vision,' he told Aletihad. The real-world impact of AI on classrooms is becoming evident. For instance, Alef Education has reported a 12.1% boost in student performance in Abu Dhabi, based on the results of Ministry of Education final exams. Among the company's solutions are the Alef Platform, which uses real-time data to personalise instruction; Alef AI Tutor, which offers step-by-step support to students; and Alef Pathways, which targets specific learning gaps. The use of tools like Alef Pathways and AI Tutor has resulted in student performance improvements of 5.67% and 4.18%, respectively, Alphonso said, citing rigorous, evidence-based research aligned with international standards.'Backed by strong partnerships with the Ministry of Education, we remain committed to advancing student outcomes, reducing learning disparities, and preparing all learners for success in an AI-driven world,' he added.
A Strategic Shift For professional education, the integration of AI is not just a technological upgrade; it represents a strategic shift. 'AI is fundamentally redefining the way human capital is developed and deployed,' said Vikraman Poduval, CEO of Saal.ai, another AI solutions provider based in Abu Dhabi. With the UAE's transition toward a knowledge-based economy, Poduval stressed that 'AI-powered professional education is no longer optional but a critical driver for sustainable competitiveness'. Data and AI can bridge the gap between academia and market needs by analysing job trends and identifying skills gaps, Poduval said. Through a partnership with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), Saal.ai equips students with practical AI and big data skills using its DigiXT platform. 'This strategic initiative helps accelerate UAE's transition to a knowledge-based economy, enhances graduate employability, and strengthens industry-academia partnerships,' he said.Poduval also spotlighted AcademyX, Saal.ai's AI-driven platform that recommends personalised learning paths. 'We have seen how AI can match emerging job requirements to student skill profiles and offer real-time career guidance,' he said. One success story involved a major institution that used AcademyX to 'future-fit its workforce', gaining 'granular visibility into skill gaps' and refining training strategies. Students benefitted from 'a personalised approach, receiving more in less time', Poduval said.
Bots Won't Replace Teachers Even with many tasks easily automated these days, the experts pointed out that AI would not be able to take the place of teachers. 'Technology, including AI, is not meant to replace the human element in teaching but to enhance and support it,' Alphonso said. Alef's platforms, for example, reduces administrative burden, allowing educators to focus on teaching, he added. To keep up with developments, they receive personalised, self-paced training on best practices. Saal.ai's solutions have also helped higher education instructors save time through automation, Poduval said. 'In reality, [AI] can create more personalised, student-centred experiences,' Alphonso added.In Arabic lessons, for example, gamified literacy tools can enhance the engagement of non-native speakers. Alef's Abjadiyat tool delivers personalised instruction through real-time speech and handwriting recognition.'Artificial intelligence has the potential to significantly enhance early Arabic language education, especially for young learners encountering the language for the first time,' Alphonso said. Alef's tools also support teachers in developing lesson plans and track students' progress.
Security and Privacy The increasing use of AI, however, should come with appropriate cybersecurity measures. Concerns around data privacy are valid, Alphonso said, and these must be addressed through transparency, stakeholder collaboration, and strong security protocols.'We take a multi-layered strategy to ensure that our AI systems are not only effective but also fair, inclusive, and aligned with global best practices,' he said. Data scientists continuously monitor for bias and makes sure Alef adheres to globally recognised frameworks that zero in on fairness and accountability. 'In terms of data protection, we comply with the world's leading privacy regulations, including FERPA, COPPA, and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). We also draw on ethical frameworks, such as those from the Future of Life Institute,' Alphonso said.
UAE as a Global Model With its innovative ecosystem for education, the UAE has become a global role model, the experts said. 'The UAE is uniquely positioned as a living lab for innovation,' said Poduval. 'Our goal is to shift the region from digital adoption to digital leadership.'The country's decision to introduce AI as a formal subject in schools marks a 'pivotal moment in its educational evolution', said Alphonso.
'It reflects the bold and forward-thinking vision of the UAE's leadership to equip future generations with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.'
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