UAE launches federal body for AI and data in push for 'government of future'

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Sunday announced the launch of a federal body tasked to "manage data, artificial intelligence and digital government".

In a post on social media platform X, Sheikh Mohammed named the new body - Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority - that will report to the UAE Cabinet.

It will be chaired by Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Omar Sultan Al Olama.

It will consolidate the functions of the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications the Digital Government Sector at the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, and the UAE Data Office.

"Our goal is a government that is more efficient, flexible and proactive, harnessing technology to serve humanity and build a better future for generations to come," Sheikh Mohammed wrote.

"We continue to develop a government for the future... A government equipped with data- and AI-supported tools... Faster in performance and decision-making, with greater capacity to serve people, create the best opportunities, and develop services."

Mohammed bin Rashid Approves Establishing the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority pic.twitter.com/FoVZYd8Tia

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) June 14, 2026

The Authority’s functions include unifying national directions and priorities that support a unified digital government system using Agentic AI, proposing national public policies, legislation and strategies, and ensuring alignment and integration between digital initiatives and projects at the federal and local levels.

The Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority will develop and lead the national AI strategy, work to increase the digital economy’s contribution to the country's GDP, and manage government data to ensure its quality, availability and sharing across federal entities.

The Authority will operate and develop AI-powered national data platforms to support evidence-based government decision-making, and will oversee the design and delivery of proactive, integrated digital services that put the needs of the individual at the centre.

Its mandate also covers setting standards and guidelines for data and AI management, digital transformation and government services, ensuring compliance across federal entities, and building national capabilities in artificial intelligence and digital transformation through research, development and technical advisory services.

The Authority will also work to enhance international coordination and building partnerships in the fields of artificial intelligence, data and digital government, and to support cybersecurity efforts and government information security management. This work will contribute to consolidating the UAE’s global standing as a hub for digital innovation and smart government solutions.