AI
Saudi Arabia
UAE
EgyptDubai AI Week Launches with Bold Vision for Global Tech Leadership
3 min
Dubai AI Week began with Sheikh Hamdan highlighting AI as vital to Dubai's future.
AI is seen as infrastructure for adaptive services and forward-thinking governance in the city.
Dubai will assess government and education sectors based on AI integration and contributions.
Experts and global companies gather to explore AI applications in various fields.
The event underscores Dubai's commitment to leading global AI innovation and competitiveness.
Dubai AI Week is off to a flying start, as Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum declared artificial intelligence the backbone of Dubai's future. At the opening event, the Crown Prince didn’t mince his words, describing AI as far more than merely a handy tool—rather it's become the crucial "infrastructure for cities that think, services that adapt, and governments that anticipate."
Sheikh Hamdan emphasised Dubai’s readiness to harness AI and steer its development to improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the city's economic prospects. His message at this groundbreaking event, organised through a partnership between the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) and the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), was loud and clear: Dubai intends to stand at the forefront of global AI innovation.
He explained that Dubai will now evaluate government departments on how well they're integrating artificial intelligence into their services. Additionally, the education sector will be judged based on how significantly it contributes to AI research and teaching. Businesses making notable strides in driving the emirate's AI economy will also be acknowledged.
“Make no mistake,” Sheikh Hamdan warned, “those who hesistate or don’t invest in AI today risk being left behind.” Strong words indeed, but typical of Dubai's bold stance on innovation and competitiveness.
Day one kicked off with the AI Retreat—a high-profile gathering of decision-makers and experts discussing strategies, policies, and AI investments. Over the week, Dubai AI Assembly will bring together representatives from around 15 countries and more than 100 global organisations, with sessions that delve deep into areas including generative AI, the metaverse, and practical applications for AI in sectors like wearable technology, education, and the workplace.
High-profile companies such as Microsoft, Meta, and Animoca Brands are participating, showing this initiative has drawn significant global attention. During the week-long event, around 10,000 visitors from more than 100 nationalities—including tech entrepeneurs, policy makers, investors and regulators—are expected to flock to Dubai and debate how AI can shape future societies.
Events like AI Week certainly remind me how fast-paced and innovative Dubai has become. Whether browsing the tech headlines on Arageek or chatting with colleagues over a cup of strong, sugary karak tea in Barsha, the city's tech evolution is a familiar talking point. And it seems this forward-thinking emirate has every intent to remain at the cutting edge.
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