UAE launches Chief AI Officers training programme
UAE creates new AI leadership programme with Birmingham University
#UAE #CAIOs - The UAE Government has launched a Chief AI Officers Training Programme through a partnership between the country’s Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and UK higher education institution University of Birmingham in Dubai. The two-week executive programme aims to upskill AI leaders across federal government entities, combining academic theory with practical experience to enhance government readiness for advanced technology integration and reinforce the Emirate’s global AI leadership position. This is the sixth edition of the government’s AI leadership course.
SO WHAT? - The UAE government has systematically introduced a wide variety of education and training programmes in AI and other digital skills at all levels of government from office workers to ministers. The new AI leaders programme forms part of an effort to ensure that AI expertise is embedded at senior levels, following Cabinet’s directives to install Chief AI Officer roles across federal ministries. By ensuring that all levels have AI skills and knowledge, the government aims to be prepared to innovate at speed.
Here are some key points about the new training initiative:
The UAE’s Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications and UK higher education institution University of Birmingham in Dubai have launched the Chief AI Officers Training Programme.
Chief AI Officers were nominated following UAE Cabinet approval under Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to establish the role across federal government.
The two-week executive training programme combines academic theory with practical experience, covering AI governance models, generative AI, machine learning, big data, and AI economics fundamentals. This is the sixth edition of the government’s AI leadership course.
Curriculum includes ethical, regulatory, and technical considerations for AI implementation whilst fostering innovative thinking and strategic vision among government leaders participating in the programme.
Programme covers real-world AI applications across key sectors including health, cybersecurity, energy, urban development, government services, and entrepreneurship through intensive modular learning.
International experts and academics deliver the training, enhancing dialogue between UAE AI executives and global thought leaders to exchange insights and best practices.
Selection criteria focused on candidates' ability to navigate rapidly evolving technological landscapes and readiness to integrate artificial intelligence into government operations effectively.
Initiative aligns with UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and broader "We the UAE 2031" vision positioning the country at the forefront of global AI transformation.
ZOOM OUT - The UAE’s early investment in national AI education is setting a global benchmark for government-led AI talent development. While many countries focus on regulating AI, the UAE prioritised building domestic expertise at the beginning of its National AI Strategy. Programmes like the Artificial Intelligence Programme support digital sovereignty and ensure long-term leadership in emerging technologies. As global competition intensifies for AI talent, the UAE is one of the leading nations in building that capability from within.
Read more about government training in the UAE:
100 Emiratis graduate UAE AI Programme (Middle East AI News)
UAE national AI programme launches 6th edition (Middle East AI News)
Digital Dubai, Microsoft partner for AI skills programme (Middle East AI News)
Microsoft reveals UAE AI National Skills Initiative (Middle East AI News)