UAE AI Strategy 2031 Targets Dh170 Billion Market Growth
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is building its future around artificial intelligence (AI). Since launching its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in 2017, the country has treated AI as more than just a technology. It is a tool to transform healthcare, transport, education, logistics, and energy.
By 2031, the UAE aims to fully integrate AI into all of these sectors. The goal is to make life easier, improve government services, and create a stronger economy. This is part of a larger plan to position the UAE as one of the world’s AI leaders.
AI at the Heart of UAE’s Growth
The UAE has always looked ahead when it comes to technology. With a clear plan and government support, AI is now at the center of national development.
The strategy is not just about using AI tools. It is about building a complete ecosystem where businesses, schools, hospitals, and government offices all benefit from smart technologies.
The UAE is spending billions of dirhams on projects that make AI part of daily life. From smart transport to AI-powered hospitals, the country is showing how technology can directly improve the quality of life for people.
Big Goal: AI to Add 20% to GDP by 2031
One of the most important targets in this plan is economic growth. Experts say AI will contribute 20% of the UAE’s non-oil GDP by 2031.
This means the country will reduce its dependence on oil and increase its income from digital technologies, smart services, and innovation.
The rise of AI will also create new jobs and skills. Young Emiratis and professionals will get opportunities to work in industries powered by AI. This transformation will make the UAE a regional and global hub for digital innovation.
AI Market Growth: From Dh12 Billion to Dh170 Billion
The UAE AI market is growing very quickly. In 2023, it was valued at Dh12.74 billion. By 2030, it is expected to reach Dh170.14 billion, according to Trends Research & Advisory.
This growth will come from:
- Startups launching AI solutions in finance, healthcare, and logistics.
- Research centers testing new applications for smart cities.
- Training programs to prepare a skilled workforce.
- Strong policies that make innovation easier and faster.
The UAE is now seen as one of the most attractive countries for AI investors and entrepreneurs.
Why Startups and Training Matter
Startups are playing a big role in this journey. The UAE government supports young entrepreneurs through accelerators, incubators, and funding programs. These startups are working on exciting projects like autonomous cars, medical AI tools, and smart logistics platforms.
At the same time, training initiatives are preparing the workforce. Universities and institutes in the UAE are offering AI-focused courses. These programs ensure that students and professionals gain the skills needed for an AI-powered economy.
This combination of innovation and education helps the UAE build a sustainable AI ecosystem for the future.
Global Partnerships for Knowledge Sharing
The UAE is not doing this alone. Global partnerships are a key part of its success. To learn from the best, the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications recently launched a 10-day tour to the United States.
A group of 50 Chief AI Officers from federal entities visited leading tech companies including:
- Meta
- OpenAI
- Palantir
- NVIDIA
- IBM
- Amazon
- Microsoft
During the tour, they explored the latest AI innovations, exchanged ideas with experts, and studied how advanced countries apply AI.
This program reflects the UAE’s commitment to learning, adapting, and applying best practices to its own strategy.
Government Leaders Driving the AI Agenda
Visionary leadership is one of the UAE’s strongest assets. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, said the tour highlights the UAE’s dedication to AI integration and its aim to become a global AI leader.
He explained that by working with leading companies, the UAE can build partnerships, strengthen innovation, and showcase its role on the world stage.
Mohammed Bin Taliah, Head of Government Services and leader of the delegation, added that the trip would bring back new ideas to improve government services, boost efficiency, and raise competitiveness.
The Role of Chief AI Officers
A major step forward was the appointment of Chief AI Officers across UAE government entities. This was approved by the Cabinet chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
These officers have a clear mission:
- Find opportunities to use AI.
- Design smart solutions.
- Lead projects that improve services.
By creating these roles, the UAE ensures that AI is embedded in every part of government, not just as a concept but as real action.
AI in Action: Vision 2031 Goals
The UAE’s Vision 2031 gives a clear picture of where the country is heading. By 2031, the government plans to use AI in nearly every important sector.
Here are some of the main areas:
- Healthcare: AI will support early diagnosis, personalized treatments, and robotic surgery.
- Education: Schools and universities will use AI to create personalized learning platforms.
- Transportation: Self-driving cars and smart traffic systems will become common.
- Energy: AI will improve renewable energy use and reduce waste.
- Logistics: Ports, airports, and supply chains will run on AI-driven systems.
This is not just about technology—it is about making daily life smarter, safer, and more efficient for residents and businesses.
Why the UAE is Different
Many countries are talking about AI. But the UAE is taking real steps to make it part of its national identity.
Three things make the UAE different:
- Government support – Leaders are fully committed to AI.
- Clear policies – Laws and frameworks make it easier to innovate.
- Public-private partnerships – Startups and global tech giants work side by side.
This mix of vision, policy, and partnerships has turned the UAE into a global role model for AI development.
Looking Ahead
The UAE has made it clear: AI is the future. With billions invested, strong leadership, and global partnerships, the country is on track to meet its 2031 goals.
By focusing on startups, research, and training, the UAE is building an economy where AI will create jobs, improve services, and attract global investment.
The journey is still unfolding, but one thing is certain—the UAE is not just following the global AI race. It is leading it.
