New AI lab to serve people with Down Syndrome in Dubai
Emirates Development Bank backs Down Syndrome Association lab
#UAE #inclusion - Emirates Development Bank (EDB) has launched the UAE’s first-ever artificial intelligence lab for People of Determination at the Emirates Down Syndrome Association in Dubai. Part of EDB’s UAE Develops with Kindness campaign, the initiative aims to equip individuals with Down Syndrome with AI and robotics skills, fostering inclusion in the digital economy. The launch event was attended by Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, and senior UAE officials. The milestone supports the UAE’s commitment to advancing healthcare, education, and technology, while aligning with the UAE’s Year of the Community.
SO WHAT? - The AI Lab is an innovative step in leveraging AI and robotics for social impact, and underscores the UAE’s commitment to digital inclusivity. The county is increasingly integrating AI into public services and education, in order to maximise the benefits from AI for youth and society as a whole. Accessibility and skills development remain critical challenges for People of Determination, and by creating an AI-enabled learning environments, EDB is empowering individuals with Down Syndrome, and creating pathways for employment in tech-driven industries.
Here are some key points about this announcement:
Emirates Development Bank (EDB) and the Emirates Down Syndrome Association in Dubai have opened the UAE’s first AI lab designed specifically for People of Determination in Dubai.
The lab provides hands-on training in AI and robotics, equipping participants with technical skills to succeed in a technology-driven world.
The initiative is part of EDB’s 'UAE Develops with Kindness' campaign, launched during Ramadan to support community-focused and technology-driven development.
Officially opened by Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of Emirates Development Bank and Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, the launch event was other dignitaries including:
H.E. Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita – Director General of Dubai Land Department and Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality
H.E. Haitham Al Rais – Deputy Chief of Strategy at the Prime Minister’s Office
H.E. Mona Abdul Karim Al Yafei – Director General of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services
The AI Lab aims to enhance confidence, digital literacy, and innovation skills for individuals with Down Syndrome, aligning with the UAE’s Year of the Community.
The Emirates Down Syndrome Association, established in 2006, has been a key advocate for the empowerment and inclusion of People of Determination, providing lifelong support and skill-building programmes.
Meanwhile, EDB’s community-driven efforts include a range of initiatives, from financial and educational support to SME and corporate financing, fostering economic and social progress. Key sectors include healthcare and education.
ZOOM OUT - In January, UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, named 2025 as the Year of Community. The theme highlights UAE’s commitment to building a united and resilient society, reinforcing collaboration, inclusivity and innovation as core themes for national progress. The Year of Community initiative encourages government, industry and society to make contributions through community service, volunteering, and knowledge sharing, aiming to enhance social bonds and drive collective progress.
* Under the UAE’s National Policy for Empowering People with Special Needs, people with special needs or disabilities are referred to as ‘people of determination’.
[Written and edited with the assistance of AI]