The UAE Ministry of Investment has partnered with Microsoft to launch an ambitious training initiative aimed at upskilling 100,000 government employees. This collaboration, signed during GITEX Global 2025, is part of a broader national effort to enhance the UAE’s artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and further position the country as a leader in AI and digital transformation.
Key Objectives of the Initiative
The training programme is designed to equip UAE government and investment professionals with the technical skills necessary to utilise AI in areas such as investment analytics, financial forecasting, and data-driven policymaking. This initiative is closely aligned with the UAE National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, which aims to foster a knowledge-based economy. By expanding the use of AI, the UAE intends to streamline decision-making processes and boost its competitiveness on the global stage.
Strengthening Data Governance and Security
Beyond skill development, the partnership also focuses on promoting best practices in data governance. The programme will leverage Microsoft’s Azure Data Catalog and Azure Purview platforms to support data management and ensure security standards are met. Microsoft experts will conduct workshops throughout the training, ensuring that high standards in data usage and security are maintained.
Vision for the Future
The UAE’s Undersecretary at the Ministry of Investment, Mohammad Alhawi, noted that this initiative is part of the country’s broader ambition to become a global leader in AI by 2031. Amr Kamel, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, emphasised the synergies between Microsoft’s AI expertise and the Ministry’s strategic vision to drive innovation and data-driven growth across various sectors of the economy.
This partnership is also an important milestone in the UAE’s strategy to strengthen its position as a regional hub for AI and digital investment. Large-scale workforce training like this is seen as a key pillar in driving the country’s transformation into a knowledge economy, underpinned by data and AI technologies.
For those following the development of AI across the region, the UAE’s initiative is a pivotal move in shaping the future of AI in government and business. The programme reflects the growing importance of data literacy in shaping policy and guiding investment decisions. This initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the country’s ability to compete in the global AI landscape.
For more insights on AI developments in the region, check out how Pakistan and the UAE are enhancing their tech partnership.
