Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a new set of artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives aimed at accelerating Dubai’s digital transformation and reinforcing its status as a leading global technology hub. The initiatives were confirmed during the second meeting of 2025 for the Higher Committee for Future Technology Development and the Digital Economy. During the session, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed progress on previous projects and endorsed several new plans to expand AI integration across both government and business sectors.
Dubai remains committed to becoming “the world’s fastest, smartest and most prepared city to adopt future technologies and AI,” as outlined by Sheikh Hamdan. This ambitious goal aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Hamdan reiterated that the emirate’s vision is clear and its priorities well defined. He added that Dubai is continuously striving to ensure its government entities not only keep pace with future technological developments but also make the most of AI to enhance service delivery. This goal is fully in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).
Key AI Initiatives Approved
Among the major projects endorsed were the AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform, the Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce, and the Unicorn 30 Programme. Each of these initiatives plays a crucial role in supporting Dubai’s broader digital economy strategy, focusing on AI adoption, governance, and innovation.
AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform
The AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform is designed to facilitate the development and deployment of AI technologies within government entities. It provides a secure, fully integrated digital environment, combining advanced infrastructure with ready-to-use smart services. This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure robust cybersecurity. Ultimately, the platform will help government departments deliver AI-driven services more efficiently and rapidly.
Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce
The Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce, another key initiative, is aimed at improving collaboration among government entities while aligning their AI strategies. The taskforce was developed following consultations with Chief AI Officers from 27 government bodies, led by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI). It is designed to expedite decision-making processes, improve institutional integration, and ensure that AI projects across various sectors deliver tangible, measurable outcomes.
Unicorn 30 Programme
The Unicorn 30 Programme, created by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, targets the growth of 30 promising startups across emerging sectors. The goal is to transform these startups into billion-dollar “unicorns” based in Dubai. The programme, which involves over 80 local and international companies, encompasses 10 initiatives focusing on financing, growth, regulation, and governance. It aims to support entrepreneurship, attract investment, and further establish Dubai as a global hub for startups.
These initiatives reflect Dubai’s commitment to embracing AI and technology as pivotal drivers of future growth. The city is positioning itself as a leader in the digital economy, ensuring that it is well-equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of an AI-driven future. This push to accelerate AI adoption aligns with other ongoing projects, such as the Dubai AI Summit and upcoming international tech events like the one in 2026, which further highlight Dubai’s global ambition in the field of artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
As Dubai continues to fast-track its AI initiatives, the city is set to make strides toward its long-term vision, providing a strong foundation for future technological advancements.
