The sixth cohort of the AI program has been launched, featuring the participation of 77 employees from both public and private sectors. This initiative aims to nurture a skilled national generation that will spearhead the digital transformation in the UAE by equipping them with the latest competencies and knowledge in AI and emerging technologies, thus reinforcing the country’s position as a global hub for technology and innovation while aligning with its future ambitions.
The program’s launch, organized by the National AI Program in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, included a panel discussion featuring several distinguished speakers, such as Engineer Amal Abdulrahim, Assistant Undersecretary for Support Services and CEO of AI at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Ahmed Al-Huqani, CEO of AI at the General Civil Aviation Authority, and Ahmed Al-Ali, CEO of AI at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. The session was moderated by Marwa Al-Shibani from the Office of AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications.
During the discussion, the AI leaders shared their experiences within the program and how it has honed their skills and enriched their knowledge in emerging and professional fields. They showcased how the program has broadened their strategic thinking and enhanced their ability to create AI-based solutions that contribute to the development of their sectors.
Participants highlighted that the program serves as a genuine platform for empowerment and networking with a select group of experts and decision-makers, facilitating the transformation of ideas into tangible projects that have a meaningful impact on the digital transformation landscape.
Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Mahmoud, a director at the Office of AI, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasized that AI programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing talent and cultivating minds in this field are vital drivers in propelling the UAE toward the future, supported by generations of innovators in AI and other future domains.
He further stated that cultivating technological skills is essential for developing a strategic mindset that enhances our capacity for innovation and impact. This is accomplished by gathering government personnel on a knowledge platform to engage with thought leaders and experts, turning our aspirations into entrepreneurial projects that support digital transformation and align with the nation’s ambitions for leadership in the future.
The sixth cohort of the AI program now includes new entities such as the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority, the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Center, Dubai Ambulance Services, the Dubai Cyber Security Center, the Sharjah Police General Command, and NMC Group.
The program aims to familiarize participants with the concepts of AI, generative AI, and their rapid global advancements. It addresses future challenges and opportunities in vital sectors while highlighting AI trends, the application of large language models, and innovative solutions to security challenges.
Notably, the AI program has successfully graduated over 370 participants from more than 100 government and private entities during its previous cycles, with many taking on leadership positions, including newly established roles such as Chief AI Officers. Participants have developed a range of innovative projects in AI and its applications, while the program has provided them with the opportunity to enhance their skills and realize their aspirations in creating innovative ideas and projects that can elevate the performance of various sectors, leveraging the advanced technological infrastructure available in the UAE.