Beyond many eyes, surprisingly the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has rapidly emerged as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) governance and digital transformation. Very dominantly the country is experiencing tangible benefits across its economy, public sector, and society by prioritizing AI governance and efforts to bridge the digital divide.
AI Governance in the UAE: Setting the Foundations
AI governance refers to the frameworks, policies, and regulations designed to guide the ethical and responsible development and deployment of AI technologies. The UAE, recognizing both the opportunities and risks posed by AI, has taken proactive steps to develop a robust AI governance structure.
One of the key milestones in the UAE’s AI journey was the establishment of the UAE National AI Strategy 2031, which aims to integrate AI into key sectors like education, healthcare, and government services. To ensure ethical use and mitigate potential risks, the UAE has outlined guidelines and principles for AI development. For example, the UAE government has emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems.
The appointment of the world’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017 demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to leading the global conversation on AI governance. This leadership has enabled the country to implement policies that foster innovation while safeguarding privacy, data security, and human rights.
Bridging the Digital Divide: UAE’s Inclusive Approach
The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals and communities that have access to modern information and communication technology (ICT) and those that do not. In the context of AI governance, bridging the digital divide is essential to ensure that the benefits of AI technologies are accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location.
Expanding Digital Infrastructure
The UAE has made significant investments in expanding its digital infrastructure to ensure widespread access to high-speed internet, which is essential for AI adoption. According to the UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), the country ranks among the top nations globally in terms of broadband penetration, with over 99% of the population having access to high-speed internet as of 2023. This widespread internet connectivity is a critical enabler for the adoption and implementation of AI technologies across various sectors.
The UAE government has also been working to bring digital connectivity to remote and underserved areas, ensuring that residents of rural regions have access to the same digital tools and services as those in urban centers. This effort is crucial for bridging the digital divide and enabling more inclusive participation in the digital economy.
Promoting Digital Literacy and Skill Development
While access to digital infrastructure is important, it is equally critical to equip citizens with the skills needed to thrive in a digital world. The UAE government has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy and skill development. For instance, the National Program for AI aims to train UAE citizens in AI and other emerging technologies, with a focus on preparing the next generation of talent for the demands of the future workforce.
Additionally, the UAE has partnered with international organizations, such as UNESCO and the World Economic Forum, to develop educational programs that promote digital literacy. These initiatives are designed to ensure that all citizens, including youth, women, and marginalized groups, have the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to succeed in the digital economy.
According to a 2022 report by the World Bank, the UAE ranks among the top countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in terms of digital skill acquisition, with 65% of the population reporting that they possess the digital skills necessary to use AI-powered tools and services.
Benefits of AI Governance and Bridging the Digital Divide
The UAE’s efforts to develop a strong AI governance framework and bridge the digital divide are yielding significant benefits across several sectors, including the economy, healthcare, education, and public services.
Economic Growth and Innovation
AI governance, combined with widespread digital access, has accelerated innovation and economic growth in the UAE. According to PwC’s “Global AI Study 2021,” AI could contribute up to $320 billion to the Middle East economy by 2030, with the UAE expected to capture a significant share of this growth. The study highlights that sectors such as retail, healthcare, and finance in the UAE are already reaping the rewards of AI adoption, thanks to the country’s forward-thinking policies and commitment to digital inclusion.
Additionally, the UAE’s focus on AI has attracted global tech companies and startups to establish a presence in the region, further boosting innovation. The country’s free zones, such as the Dubai Internet City, provide a conducive environment for tech companies to thrive, offering tax incentives and easy access to world-class digital infrastructure.
Enhancing Healthcare Delivery
AI and digital technologies are transforming healthcare delivery in the UAE. Through the use of AI-powered diagnostic tools, the country is improving patient outcomes and reducing the time required for diagnosis. In 2020, the UAE launched the world’s first AI-powered COVID-19 screening facility, which used machine learning algorithms to detect the virus with high accuracy. This innovation not only improved testing efficiency but also demonstrated the potential of AI in enhancing healthcare services.
Transforming Education
The UAE’s efforts to bridge the digital divide are also having a profound impact on the education sector. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital learning tools, and the UAE government was quick to ensure that all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, had access to these resources. Through initiatives like the “Digital School,” which aims to provide education to underserved communities, the UAE is making strides in ensuring that no student is left behind in the digital age.
AI governance plays a role in ensuring that digital learning tools are used ethically and that students’ data is protected. Moreover, AI-powered tools are being used to personalize learning experiences, allowing students to learn at their own pace and receive customized support.
Conclusion
The UAE’s dual focus on AI governance and bridging the digital divide is positioning the country as a global leader in the digital economy. By fostering innovation through responsible AI use and ensuring that all citizens have access to the benefits of digital transformation, the UAE is creating a more inclusive and prosperous future. As the world continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by AI, the UAE’s approach serves as a model for other nations striving to harness the power of technology while ensuring that no one is left behind.
