In a significant move underscoring the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to modern governance, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, announced key changes within the government following the approval of President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This announcement, which focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into decision-making processes, signals a dynamic shift intended to prepare the nation for the decades ahead.
New Government Structure
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid revealed these changes on the platform “X,” stating, “Dear brothers and sisters… after consulting with my brother, the President of the State, may God protect him, we announce some changes in the government of the UAE as follows: the establishment of a Ministry of Foreign Trade, appointing Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi as the Minister of Foreign Trade, and renaming the Ministry of Economy to the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, to be led by Abdullah bin Touq Al Mari.”
In addition, he confirmed the adoption of a national artificial intelligence framework that will serve as an advisory member in the Cabinet, the Cabinet for Development, and all boards of federal entities and government companies starting January 2026. This initiative aims to bolster decision-making processes, provide real-time analyses, and enhance the efficiency of government policies.
Commitment to Smart Governance
The UAE government emphasizes that artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a choice but an essential component of smart governance and sustainable development. The integration of AI is viewed as a strategic response to global shifts in governance and economy. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid stated, “The world is undergoing a comprehensive restructuring… Our aim is to prepare today for the coming decades, ensuring continued well-being for future generations.”
This vision aligns with the UAE’s ambitious goal to remain competitive on a global scale, particularly in digital economy sectors, investment, and technological infrastructure. By incorporating the national AI framework into decision-making bodies, the country positions itself as a leader in utilizing AI as a central tool for governmental decision-making.
Transformational Strategy
This strategic move is part of the “UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031,” designed to leverage AI across various sectors, including government services, education, healthcare, and smart transport. The goal is to achieve 100% dependency on AI for service delivery and data analysis by 2031, enhancing the UAE’s status as a global hub for AI innovation and application.
Moreover, substantial investments are being made in the AI sector, with projections suggesting AI’s contribution to the national economy could reach approximately $96 billion by 2030, equaling around 14% of GDP. The UAE continues to invest in research and development projects across diverse fields like smart transportation and medical robotics, underscoring the importance of AI in its developmental trajectory.
Enhancing Service Delivery
The prioritization of AI integration has led to the automation of many federal services, significantly improving user experience. For instance, the Ministry of Interior has implemented AI technology to predict public safety needs, while the Ministry of Health utilizes AI for disease diagnosis and healthcare resource allocation. Other ministries, such as Human Resources and Emiratisation, are employing AI to anticipate job market trends and propose proactive policies.
Through these advancements, the UAE showcases a transformative approach to governance, aiming not only for technological prowess but also for the enhancement of quality of life for its citizens.
A Vision for the Future
To secure a prosperous future for upcoming generations, the UAE has established the “Mohammed bin Zayed University for Artificial Intelligence,” the first graduate-level institution globally focused on AI studies, aimed at nurturing skilled leaders in this field. Furthermore, the UAE’s formation of the “UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain” will serve as a coordinating body to accelerate national project execution in this arena, ensuring effective regulation and safe deployment of modern technologies.
Ultimately, the UAE is setting a global example with its proactive approach to AI integration in governance, emphasizing that investing in technology is also an investment in human potential and future readiness. These forward-looking initiatives are foundational to maintaining the well-being of citizens, residents, and the sustainability of achievements for decades to come.