Sheikh Mohammed announced the launch of a new body for AI and digital economy development

The United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its position as one of the world's leaders in digital technologies. The country has established a Federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority (Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority), which will serve as the single national center for managing digital transformation, government data, and artificial intelligence development.

The decision to establish the new agency was approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, has been appointed as the head of the entity.

This new initiative reflects the UAE's strategic direction towards developing a knowledge economy, digital technologies, and smart governance.

A Single Center for Managing the Country's Digital Future

According to official statements, the new authority will be responsible for coordinating all key areas of digital development at the federal level.

Its scope of responsibility will include:

• artificial intelligence development;
• government data management;
• digital government;
• implementation of smart technologies in the public sector;
• formulation of national digital strategies.

The new agency will report directly to the UAE Cabinet of Ministers, underscoring the high priority of digital transformation for the state.

According to Sheikh Mohammed, the main goal is to create a more efficient governance model based on data, technology, and modern digital solutions.

Artificial Intelligence to Form the Foundation of Government Services

One of the authority's key areas of work will be the implementation of Agentic AI technologies — a new generation of intelligent systems capable of independently performing tasks, analyzing data, and supporting decision-making.

The UAE authorities view artificial intelligence as a tool for enhancing the efficiency of government services and improving the quality of life for the population.

It is expected that the use of AI will enable:

• faster data processing;
• improved quality of government services;
• improve decision-making processes;
• automate administrative processes;
• reduce bureaucratic procedures.

In his address, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that the government of the future must be faster, smarter, and more efficient, leveraging technology to address the needs of citizens and businesses.

80,000 government employees to be trained in AI

The establishment of the new department is a continuation of a large-scale digital modernization program for the public sector.

Authorities previously announced plans to train 80,000 government employees in Agentic AI technologies.

The program will enable government employees to integrate artificial intelligence into their daily workflows and utilize modern data analysis tools when providing services to the public.

Experts anticipate that such initiatives will significantly accelerate the development of the high-tech professions market in the country.

Particularly in demand may be:

• artificial intelligence specialists;
• machine learning engineers;
• data analysts;
• intelligent systems developers;
• digital transformation specialists;
• AI and digital process management experts.

Key objectives of the new agency

The Federal Authority for Artificial Intelligence and Data will be responsible for shaping a unified national policy in digital government and artificial intelligence utilization.

Its primary functions include:

• developing national strategies and regulations;
• coordination of digital projects between federal and local government bodies;
• government data management;
• development of national data platforms;
• supporting decision-making based on analytics and artificial intelligence;
• control of data handling standards.

Additionally, the department will focus on increasing the digital economy's contribution to the country's GDP and promoting the development of innovative technologies across various economic sectors.

International Cooperation and Cybersecurity

Special attention will be given to developing international cooperation in technology, artificial intelligence, and digital governance.

The new agency will also support cybersecurity initiatives, protect government information systems, and enhance digital infrastructure.

According to authorities, this comprehensive approach will strengthen the UAE's position as a global hub for digital innovation and modern government technologies.

Why This Is Important for the UAE Economy

In recent years, the UAE has consistently invested in the development of artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and future technologies.

The establishment of the new federal body confirms the state's commitment to advancing to the next stage of digital transformation and strengthening its competitive advantages on the global stage.

AI development contributes to:

• attracting international technology companies;
• creating high-paying jobs;
• increasing investment in innovative industries;
• boosting economic productivity;
• fostering research and development activities.

Such initiatives are becoming an important part of the country's long-term economic diversification strategy.

Impact on the UAE Real Estate Market

The development of the digital economy and artificial intelligence has a direct impact on the real estate market.

The growth in the number of technology companies and highly skilled professionals leads to an increased demand for housing in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other major cities across the country. Properties in areas catering to entrepreneurs, IT specialists, and international businesses are particularly sought after.

Furthermore, technological development contributes to the creation of new business clusters, enhances the investment attractiveness of regions, and further boosts demand for commercial real estate.

For international investors, such initiatives serve as an additional signal that the UAE continues to strengthen its position as one of the most innovative and promising markets globally.

A New Phase in the Development of the Knowledge Economy

The establishment of the Federal Authority for Artificial Intelligence and Data is a logical continuation of the UAE's digitalization policy.

As early as 2017, the country was one of the first in the world to appoint a Minister of Artificial Intelligence. Since then, large-scale programs have been implemented for the development of the digital economy, modernization of government services, and the adoption of innovative technologies.

The new authority will unify these initiatives under a single management and accelerate the transition to an economic model based on data, technology, and artificial intelligence.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Federal Authority for Artificial Intelligence and Data reaffirms the UAE's commitment to remain among the global leaders in digital transformation. The new agency will coordinate the development of artificial intelligence, the management of government data, and the implementation of smart technologies in the public sector.

For the country's economy, this means further development of high-tech industries, and for the real estate market — additional demand drivers from international specialists, entrepreneurs, and companies choosing the UAE as a hub for living, working, and long-term investments.