
UAE's new AI Academy to shape tech leaders
Polynome Group, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi School of Management, unveiled the initiative at the 'Machines Can See' summit during the Dubai AI Week.
The new Academy will first offer short-format programmes for executives, government officials and tech experts, covering topics like generative AI, national strategies and ethical deployment.
Courses will be available in multiple languages.
Following the initial rollout, the Academy will launch its flagship offering, the Chief AI Officer Programme (CAIO), a 3 to 4-month leadership track that dives deep into AI strategy, governance and real-world applications across sectors like healthcare, finance and public services.
Top scientists and global industry leaders will lead exclusive seminars, with support from tech giant NVIDIA, which will integrate its AI expertise into select modules.
The initiative aims to drive innovation, support startup growth and position the UAE as a global hub for AI excellence.
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