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Khaleej Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE supercharges AI drive with multi-billion-dollar agenda
The UAE is rapidly reinforcing its status as a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence, propelled by an ambitious multi-billion-dollar agenda. The agenda aligns cutting-edge infrastructure with deep-rooted government strategy, strategic alliances, and a bold push to build homegrown talent and innovation, according to leading analysts. As AI becomes a central pillar of the country's non-oil diversification drive, its impact is expected to be transformational — potentially contributing up to 20 per cent of the UAE's non-oil GDP by 2031, they argue. The scale of ambition is matched by the scale of investment. From a market valued at roughly Dh12.74 billion in 2023, AI in the UAE is forecast to grow at an extraordinary compound annual growth rate of 44 per cent to reach an estimated Dh170.14 billion by 2030, according to TRENDS Research & Advisory. This meteoric rise is being enabled by a fast-maturing ecosystem of AI-focused startups, research institutions, training programmes, and robust policy frameworks that collectively make the UAE one of the most AI-progressive nations globally. Since launching its National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in 2017, the UAE has made AI a centrepiece of its national development agenda, targeting full integration into key sectors such as healthcare, transport, education, energy, and logistics by 2031. The strategy is backed by sovereign funds, including Abu Dhabi's MGX, which alone is targeting Dh367 billion in AI-related assets. Complementing this are billion-dollar initiatives dedicated to semiconductor fabrication, data centre infrastructure, and AI training, developed through high-profile collaborations with global tech giants such as Nvidia, AMD, and OpenAI. Tarek Kabrit, CEO of Dubai-based AI startup Seez, believes the UAE's approach goes far beyond financial incentives. 'AI is not just a market or a technology to be chased for growth's sake,' he says. 'It's a fundamental shift in how businesses, governments, and individuals relate to data, decisions, and automation. The real value lies in how AI integrates seamlessly to empower people and create new human-centric experiences.' This people-first approach is evident in the UAE's human capital strategy. Government-led initiatives aim to upskill more than one million residents in AI-related competencies. The number of AI professionals in the country has grown nearly fourfold to 120,000 in just a few years. Dedicated institutions such as the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and the Technology Innovation Institute are playing a pivotal role in anchoring the UAE's growing reputation as an AI research and development hub. At the same time, the government is setting global benchmarks in ethical AI governance. The UAE's AI Ethics Charter, federal data protection laws, and responsible innovation frameworks ensure that rapid progress does not come at the expense of individual privacy, security, or societal trust. The benefits of AI are already tangible across various sectors. In healthcare, AI-powered diagnostics and personalised treatment plans are helping transform patient care, with the segment growing at over 40 per cent annually. In transport, cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are deploying AI to optimise traffic flow, reduce emissions, and enhance safety through predictive analytics and smart mobility platforms. Companies such as Seez are demonstrating how AI can redefine the customer experience. Its flagship product, Seezar, is an AI-powered conversational agent that assists automotive dealerships with proactive customer engagement. 'The future of AI-powered software is proactive, not reactive,' says Kabrit. 'Our goal is to reduce friction by having AI anticipate needs and deliver outcomes before users even ask. That's where AI truly unlocks value.' Large enterprises are also leveraging AI for operational excellence. State energy giant Adnoc reported saving over $500 million in 2023 through AI-driven efficiency gains and emissions reductions. Emirates NBD, a pioneer in digital banking, was one of the first in the region to launch an AI chatbot— Eva — for customer service as far back as 2017. Importantly, the region is also cultivating its own generative AI capabilities. The UAE-based G42 group, in collaboration with academic partners, developed 'Jais,' a large language model tailored to Arabic, while Saudi Arabia's SDAIA has launched its own model, 'Bayan.' Abu Dhabi's Technology Innovation Institute has introduced the second generation of its flagship Falcon 2 model, pushing the envelope on Arabic AI development and regional autonomy in the GenAI race. As the AI race intensifies globally, the UAE's model of coupling large-scale investments with deep institutional alignment and a forward-thinking talent strategy is positioning the country as a serious contender for global AI leadership. With neighbouring Gulf countries also advancing their AI agendas, the region is poised to play an increasingly influential role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence, analysts said.
Zawya
25-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE accelerates AI ambitions with multi-billion-dollar push: Industry leader weighs in
Dubai, UAE – The UAE is fast-tracking its rise as a global artificial intelligence (AI) hub, backed by massive state investments, strategic partnerships, and a growing ecosystem of AI startups and institutions. As public and private sectors double down on digital transformation, analysts predict AI will contribute a staggering 20% to the country's non-oil GDP by 2031. AI's Economic Potential: In 2023, the UAE's AI market was valued at approximately AED12.743 billion [1]. With a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 44%, the market is projected to swell to around AED170.143 billion by 2030 as per a report by independent research institution ' TRENDS Research & Advisory'. [2] Tarek Kabrit, CEO of Seez—one of Dubai's leading AI tech innovators—says while the numbers are extremely encouraging, it's equally important to look beyond them. 'AI is not just a market or a technology to be chased for growth's sake,' Kabrit says. 'It's a fundamental shift in how businesses, governments, and individuals relate to data, decisions, and automation. The real value lies in how AI integrates seamlessly to empower people and create new human-centric experiences.' Government-Led Growth: The UAE's success story is rooted in visionary government initiatives. Launched in 2017, the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence set an aggressive path for AI to permeate all sectors by 2031, focusing on health, transport, energy, and education. The government is not only providing frameworks but also deploying billions in funding and infrastructure. Abu Dhabi's MGX sovereign fund targets AED367 billion in AI-related assets. A separate billion-dollar fund is advancing chip fabrication and data center construction through strategic alliances with Nvidia, AMD, and OpenAI. Kabrit highlights the significance of this bold investment: 'Sustainable AI growth demands more than software and algorithms. It requires a robust ecosystem with advanced infrastructure, research institutions, and capital. That's what gives startups and enterprises the freedom to innovate and scale.' Human Capital and Ethical Framework: Technology alone cannot drive transformation. The UAE is simultaneously investing heavily in human capital. Government-led training programs aim to equip over one million residents with AI skills, while the number of AI professionals quadrupled to nearly 120,000 within the last few years. Institutions like the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and the Technology Innovation Institute anchor the Emirates as a research and talent hub. However, with great power comes great responsibility. The UAE is advancing ethical AI through its AI Ethics Charter, federal data protection laws, and ongoing efforts to balance innovation with privacy and security. Real-World Impact: The UAE is already reaping AI's benefits in tangible ways. Healthcare AI solutions, growing at over 40% annually, are enhancing diagnostics and personalized care. Smart transport initiatives leverage AI for predictive traffic management and emissions reduction in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Seez exemplifies AI's enterprise impact by transforming the automotive retail experience. Its AI-powered platform Seezar provides dealerships with conversational agents that proactively advise and assist, streamlining sales and customer engagement. 'The future of AI-powered software is proactive, not reactive,' Kabrit explains. 'Our goal is to reduce friction by having AI anticipate needs and deliver outcomes before users even ask. That's where AI truly unlocks value. It changes how people experience technology from the inside out.' About Seez: Seez is an automotive technology company established in 2016 and focused on AI-powered solutions for car dealers and OEMs. With headquarters in Dubai and an office in Copenhagen, Seez delivers a suite of SaaS products designed to enhance efficiency, automation, and customer engagement. Our solutions range from omnichannel retail platforms and predictive pricing models to advanced machine learning tools and AI-driven chat solutions. Operating across 20 countries, Seez empowers automotive businesses with data-driven insights and seamless digital experiences. Further information can be located by visiting For more information on Seez, please contact: Priyanka Prakash priyanka@
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and TRENDS sign strategic research MoU at ‘Make it in the Emirates'
Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a move that underscores the UAE's commitment to data-driven policymaking and knowledge-based development, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and TRENDS Research & Advisory have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance joint research across strategic areas of mutual interest. The agreement was signed during the fourth edition of 'Make it in the Emirates' forum in Abu Dhabi—one of the UAE's leading platforms for innovation, industry, and future-focused partnerships. The MoU aims to strengthen collaboration on economic, social, and future-oriented studies, including field research, by producing rigorous, evidence-based insights to inform decision-making and national development priorities. It was formalized by His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. The agreement paves the way for joint publications, academic exchanges, co-hosted conferences, and workshops, while also expanding cooperation on scientific communication and outreach with local and international institutions. The two entities also plan to launch joint research projects and collaborative initiatives on priority topics, reinforcing the UAE's position as a hub for thought leadership and innovation. H.E. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, commented: 'This MoU with TRENDS Research & Advisory reflects the Fund's commitment to deepening cooperation with national research centers and leveraging scientific research to support comprehensive development. We are focused on backing data-driven initiatives built on rigorous standards that contribute to effective policy development, help address economic and development challenges and support sustainable social progress.' Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, added: 'We are proud to sign this MoU with one of the region's leading development institutions. This partnership will enhance the production of strategic, evidence-based research and enable knowledge exchange and application of best practices in various economic and development fields.' The collaboration represents a strategic step toward strengthening the UAE's research ecosystem and aligning national development institutions with leading policy think tanks. The MoU sets the foundation for future agreements and joint initiatives that will contribute to the UAE's long-term vision and evidence-based policy agenda.
