In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, the participation of Emirati women in science and technology is no longer merely noticeable; it is a vital contribution to knowledge production and futurism. With a robust national framework that prioritises education, research, and innovation, Emirati women are carving a significant path in these influential fields.
Career in Research and Artificial Intelligence
Among the notable figures in this journey is Dr Hanan Al Darmaki, the Director of the Learning and Teaching Centre and Assistant Professor in the Natural Language Processing Department at Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. Al Darmaki’s experience exemplifies the blend of advanced education and academic research aimed at advancing AI technologies.
In her statements, Al Darmaki highlighted how, thanks to the support and guidance of the nation’s leadership, Emirati women today have numerous opportunities to pursue advanced education and build careers in research and AI. She noted an increasing interest among Emirati students in these fields.
Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence
Joining Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in 2022, Dr Al Darmaki became the first woman and the first Emirati to join the university’s teaching faculty. She continues her research and teaching while overseeing the next generation of AI researchers and leading the university’s Learning and Teaching Centre.
The growing presence of Emirati women in this sector indicates a positive trend, with female students making up 54% of the total Emirati student body enrolled at the university for the academic batch of 2026-2027. Al Darmaki believes that the achievements of Emirati women today are the result of decades of support and wise leadership that recognised the importance of empowering women and enhancing their participation across various sectors.
Dr Al Darmaki’s role as an Emirati researcher in AI carries significant responsibilities related to identity, language, and culture. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into various systems and applications, the accurate representation of cultures, values, and languages gains prominence.
Natural Language Processing and Spoken Arabic
In this context, Al Darmaki sees her work as an opportunity to represent her native language and community in this fast-paced field. She emphasises that much of her research focuses on natural language processing and spoken Arabic. This area presents real scientific challenges due to the vast diversity of Arabic dialects, with the “spoken language” in the UAE manifesting in various forms. This intricate variation is a core focus of her work through “Rammas Lab,” a national initiative aimed at documenting the spoken Emirati dialects across the country.
According to Al Darmaki, this endeavour extends beyond mere language documentation. A substantial portion of the Emirati intangible heritage is transmitted orally, meaning that documenting language also involves recording a rich tapestry of cultural values and practices. She aims to provide resources and establish the foundations needed to develop linguistic technologies that accurately represent Emirati language and culture.
AI Fellowship Programme for Researchers
Highlighting the educational opportunities available for Emiratis, Dr Al Darmaki noted that the Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence offers various programmes across different stages of education and professional pathways, from undergraduate programmes in AI to master’s and doctoral degrees. Students are afforded the chance to conduct advanced research and collaborate with various sectors.
Recently, the university launched the “AI Leaders Fellowship” programme, which provides Emirati researchers holding a PhD the fully funded opportunity to conduct post-doctoral research for two years at leading global research institutions. This initiative aims to prepare a new generation of Emirati faculty members and research leaders.
On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, Dr Al Darmaki conveyed a message to young girls aspiring to become scientists and researchers in AI. She urged them to recognise that their knowledge and intellectual capabilities are their most valuable assets. She encouraged them to continue learning and to develop a deep understanding of the fields they study and work in, as mastery of the technical language and concepts does not just enable participation; it empowers them to shape the trajectory of the field.
Dr Al Darmaki concluded by asserting that technology, including AI, is not an end in itself but rather a tool for human service and enhancement. The shared responsibility lies in harnessing it to build a sustainable and prosperous future.