Dubai strengthening status as global AI hub: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan

Dubai is rapidly solidifying its status as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI), driven by groundbreaking projects, innovative companies and strategic partnerships.

That's according to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and Chairman of the Dubai Future Foundation.

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted AI’s transformative potential and its critical role in shaping the future, aligning with Dubai's vision for growth powered by innovation.

His comments followed the release of a study by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), which revealed that over 800 AI-focused companies operate in Dubai, with 66% choosing the city as a global base to test and implement AI technologies.

Nearly half of these companies specialize in AI software, and 72% are small and medium enterprises or startups.

"Our success in shaping the future of AI depends on bold decisions and creating a business environment that fosters global excellence. Powered by national talent and international partnerships, Dubai is at the forefront of technological transformation. The future is Dubai, and Dubai is the future," Sheikh Hamdan said in a statement on X.

He also stressed the importance of public-private sector collaboration in advancing the AI ecosystem, highlighting how Dubai's strategic initiatives have attracted significant investments in AI.

The DCAI report, which was unveiled by Sheikh Hamdan at ‘Area 2071’ in the Emirates Towers, reveals significant growth in Dubai's AI sector, with a rise in both the number and quality of AI-specialized companies.

It also emphasises that Dubai's AI acceleration plan has fostered a strong foundation for startups and global enterprises to thrive.

A key milestone in this effort is the launch of the ‘Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence’ in April 2024, providing a roadmap for AI integration across vital sectors.

In June 2024, the 'AI Retreat' in Dubai became a crucial forum for public and private sector experts to discuss AI’s role in driving economic growth.

Furthermore, in June 2024, Sheikh Hamdan appointed 22 AI Chief Executives within the Dubai Government to strengthen AI’s integration, enhance capabilities, and solidify Dubai’s position as a global tech leader.

"The future is #Dubai, and Dubai is the future"@HamdanMohammed pic.twitter.com/M2ER1kPJ8t

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 12, 2024

Today, I reviewed a Dubai Center for Artificial Intelligence study which reveals that over 800 AI companies are thriving in Dubai. They have chosen Dubai as their base due to the city’s advanced infrastructure, progressive regulations, and innovative services, all driven by the… pic.twitter.com/W0p2hpRvGc

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) December 12, 2024