Inside Abu Dhabi’s Game-Changing Plan to Run Full AI-Powered Government

Abu Dhabi is setting an ambitious course towards becoming the world’s first fully AI-native government by 2027. This bold vision is anchored in the emirate’s rich history of digital transformation and technological innovation, positioning it as a beacon of progress in the MENA region and beyond.

The Evolution of Abu Dhabi’s Digital Landscape

Over the past decade, Abu Dhabi has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the Middle East, driven by a relentless pursuit of digital excellence. Its vibrant digital economy boasts next-generation infrastructure designed to embrace cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Notable achievements include:

• 100% Fibre-to-Home Broadband Connectivity: Making it the first capital city globally to achieve this milestone.
• Fastest Mobile Network Operator: Ensuring seamless connectivity and digital communication.
• Home to the World’s First AI University: The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence stands as a testament to the emirate’s commitment to AI education and research.

Beyond these milestones, Abu Dhabi has set global precedents in IT, telecommunications, automation, blockchain, and even space exploration, showcasing its diverse technological prowess.

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Introducing the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027

To sustain its rapid development and reinforce its position as a global AI leader, the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi has unveiled the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027. Spearheaded by His Excellency Ahmed Hisham Al Kuttab, the strategy outlines a transformative roadmap with a dedicated investment of AED 13 billion over three years.

This strategic investment aims to:

• Drive Innovation and Technology Adoption: Seamlessly integrating AI across all government systems.
• Transform Public Service Delivery: Making government services more proactive, agile, and technology-driven.

Key Pillars of the Digital Strategy

1. Digitalisation and Automation:
   • Establishing a robust digital infrastructure to support 100% adoption of sovereign cloud computing.
   • Ensuring all government processes are fully digitalised and automated, enhancing efficiency and reducing administrative overheads.
2. Innovative AI Solutions:
   • Deploying over 200 AI-driven solutions to revolutionize government services.
   • Developing a unified digital ERP platform to streamline operations and improve productivity across sectors.
3. Cybersecurity Resilience:
   • Creating comprehensive digital guidelines and frameworks to proactively address potential cybersecurity threats.
   • Ensuring data integrity and security in an increasingly connected environment.

Empowering Citizens: The ‘AI for All’ Program

Recognizing that technological advancement is incomplete without human development, the strategy introduces the ‘AI for All’ initiative. This people-centric program focuses on:

• AI Training and Empowerment: Equipping citizens with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy.
• Promoting Digital Literacy: Encouraging upskilling to ensure active participation in Abu Dhabi’s AI-driven future.

Economic and Social Impact

The transformative strategy is not just about technological growth; it promises substantial economic and social benefits:

• Contribution to GDP: Expected to add over AED 24 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP by 2027.
• Job Creation: Projected to create around 5,000 new jobs, fostering economic diversification and resilience.

Strategic Partnerships for a Digital Future

Abu Dhabi’s digital transformation journey is collaborative, involving key partners such as:

• Advanced Technology Research Council: Focusing on large language models and AI research.
• Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence: Leading in AI education and citizen upskilling.
• G42: Driving AI infrastructure development.

These partnerships will ensure that Abu Dhabi builds on existing programs like the TAMM Government Services Platform and the Abu Dhabi Program for Effortless Customer Experience, paving the way for next-generation solutions rooted in AI, sustainability, and data analytics.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi’s vision for a fully AI-native government is not just a technological ambition; it is a transformative journey towards a smarter, more inclusive, and economically resilient future. With strategic investments, innovative programs, and a commitment to citizen empowerment, Abu Dhabi is poised to set a global standard for AI-driven governance in the digital age.