Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, spearheads efforts to elevate Dubai's status as a global technology and innovation hub. He recently unveiled Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence. The blueprint translates his vision and directives into actionable strategies for enhancing Dubai's leadership in AI. Sheik Hamdan announced the initiative's launch through a post on his X account.

"In recent years, the evolution of artificial intelligence has accelerated, presenting numerous opportunities for nations and governments adept at utilizing it while posing challenges to those unable to keep pace. This required swift and adaptive action plans responsive to the rapid changes in technology and artificial intelligence", Sheikh Hamdan wrote in the post. 

Understanding the blueprint

The blueprint for AI is an annual plan that aims to be a chief target of Dubai's economic agenda, D33, by adding 100 billion dirhams from digital transformation to Dubai's economy and increasing economic productivity by 50% through innovation and adopting digital solutions.

In 1999, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum initiated the pioneering journey of the future by launching Dubai's digital transformation. This venture has continued to achieve milestones leading to the recent unveiling of the Dubai Digital Strategy last year. Sheik Hamdan stated that they have realized record-breaking accomplishments that have established Dubai as the premier hub for billion-dollar global enterprises in the technology and AI sectors within the region. 

The newly introduced blueprint will act as a roadmap to enhance the quality of life in Dubai through the adoption of AI in all sectors and areas that are significant to the city's future. It will support the growth of Dubai's economy and help it become the best and fastest city in employing technology and adopting advanced applications.

The Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence has four strategic pillars:

• The best application of AI in strategic sectors
• Global regulatory and governance sandbox for AI
• Highest in adopting AI in government work and services
• The best environment for AI companies and talent

The first batch of projects

According to Sheikh Hamdan, during the initial phase of their plan, they will commence with the goal of enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the people of Dubai using AI. They will start the first batch of projects by appointing Chief AI Officers in all Dubai governmental entities. They will also announce a comprehensive program for attracting and enabling data centres and introduce a new AI company license.

Furthermore, they will introduce AI campuses to further enhance Dubai's vibrant AI ecosystem. Finally, AI will be celebrated in Dubai schools with the introduction of an AI week. 

The blueprint will undergo annual review and updations. New projects will be included in the blueprint, aligning with global and national AI developments. Sheikh Hamdan promises that they will dedicate all their resources and energy to make Dubai the "happiest place in the world."

Content and Images: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed