The UAE and AI, and careers in a changing world

The UAE has made AI a national priority, from government strategy to classrooms. Understanding where things are heading helps you choose subjects, skills and opportunities wisely, whatever career you want.

The UAE's AI strategy

• The UAE Government launched the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in October 2017, describing it as the first of its kind in the region and the world (u.ae).
• The strategy supports the UAE Centennial 2071 goals and aims to improve government performance and make the UAE a leader in AI investment (u.ae).
• Priority sectors listed on u.ae include transport, health, space, renewable energy, water, technology, education, environment and traffic.
• The National Strategy for AI 2031 sets the aim of the UAE becoming a world leader in AI by 2031 (u.ae).

A world-first minister

• The UAE was the first country to appoint a minister for artificial intelligence. Omar Sultan Al Olama was appointed Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence on 20 October 2017 (Wikipedia).
• His title is now Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications (Wikipedia, u.ae).
• The national strategy includes programmes to build AI skills, such as specialist courses to upskill STEM graduates and free AI courses for UAE residents (UAE National Strategy for AI 2031).

AI in UAE schools and universities

• The Ministry of Education announced an AI curriculum for all public schools, from kindergarten to Grade 12, starting in the 2025 to 2026 academic year (Gulf News).
• Its seven areas are data and algorithms, software applications, ethical awareness in AI, real-world AI applications, AI-driven innovation and project design, AI policies, and social engagement (Gulf News).
• MBZUAI in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, describes itself as the world's first university dedicated exclusively to AI and offers undergraduate, master's and PhD programmes (MBZUAI).
• Many other universities in the UAE and abroad offer AI, computer science and data science degrees; compare entry requirements and accreditation (see the University and Beyond module).

How AI is changing jobs

• The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 names AI and big data as the fastest-growing skills, followed by networks and cybersecurity, and technological literacy.
• Its fastest-growing jobs include big data specialists, fintech engineers, AI and machine learning specialists, and software developers.
• The WEF projects about 170 million jobs created and 92 million displaced by 2030, a net gain of 78 million.
• Human skills also rise in importance: creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, curiosity and lifelong learning (WEF).
• 85 per cent of employers surveyed plan to prioritise upskilling their workforce (WEF), so learning does not stop when school does.

Getting ready, whatever your path

• You do not need to become a programmer: doctors, designers, lawyers, teachers and engineers will all use AI tools, so learn to use them well and critically.
• Build foundations: maths and statistics, clear writing, and at least one programming language if you are interested in technical roles.
• Make something: a small project, such as a study helper or a data analysis of a local issue, shows initiative more than a certificate alone.
• Practise the human skills the WEF highlights: teamwork, creativity, ethics and curiosity.
• Keep up with trusted sources such as u.ae and ai.gov.ae, and be wary of courses or 'AI income' schemes that promise easy money (see the Scams and Fraud module).