Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has approved a significant package of artificial intelligence projects designed to cement Dubai’s status as a global hub for future technology. The new initiatives, confirmed during a meeting of the Higher Committee for Future Technology Development and the Digital Economy, include an AI infrastructure platform, a dedicated acceleration taskforce, and a programme to develop 30 unicorn companies.
The Crown Prince emphasised Dubai’s commitment to becoming the world’s most prepared city for adopting AI and future technologies. “We are in a constant race to enhance the readiness of our government entities not only to keep pace with future transformations but also to make the most of AI tools in delivering services that are more efficient, secure, and innovative, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33),” Sheikh Hamdan stated.
New AI Projects to Accelerate Adoption
The approved projects aim to integrate AI across key sectors, improving government efficiency and fostering economic growth. Each initiative targets a specific area of Dubai’s digital ecosystem, from infrastructure and collaboration to startup development.
AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform
A central component of the new strategy is the ‘AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform’. This will provide government entities with a secure, integrated digital environment to speed up the adoption of AI. The platform offers advanced infrastructure and ready-to-use smart services, enabling departments to develop AI-driven solutions more quickly and cost-effectively while maintaining high levels of cybersecurity. Key objectives include optimising resource use, reducing costs through shared infrastructure, and strengthening data governance.
Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce
The committee also approved the creation of the ‘Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce’. This body will improve collaboration among government entities and align their strategic vision for AI adoption. Its establishment follows extensive discussions between the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) and Chief AI officers from 27 government departments, which helped identify key challenges and opportunities. The taskforce will focus on expediting the use of the latest AI technologies to drive measurable impact across all sectors.
The Unicorn 30 Programme
To bolster the emirate’s startup scene, Sheikh Hamdan launched the ‘Unicorn 30 Programme’. Developed by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy with 80 local and international firms, the programme aims to fast-track the growth of 30 emerging companies, helping them achieve billion-dollar “unicorn” status. Operating under the Dubai Founders HQ, it includes 10 initiatives covering financing, growth, and governance to create a supportive environment for global expansion.
Future of GITEX and Project Updates
The committee reviewed plans for the 2026 edition of GITEX Global, which will mark a major milestone in the event’s 45-year history. The technology showcase will move from the Dubai World Trade Centre to Expo City Dubai, a relocation that promises a new scale and scope. The move will allow the event to feature richer content and expanded global participation, as Dubai is set to host the world’s largest tech and AI event in 2026.
Sheikh Hamdan was also briefed on the progress of other major projects, including the Dubai PropTech Hub, which aims to become the largest hub for property technology in the region by 2030, and the operational strategy for the recently launched Dubai Founders HQ. These initiatives collectively support Dubai’s ambition to lead in digital transformation and innovation.
