Dubai Police have issued a fresh reminder to residents to strengthen the security of home surveillance systems and internet-connected devices, warning that weak settings can leave users vulnerable to hacking, privacy breaches, and even cyber extortion.

The alert comes as part of ongoing awareness campaigns led by the General Department of Criminal Investigation, represented by the Cybercrime and Electronic Crime Department. Authorities noted that many cyberattacks exploit devices with default or weak configurations, making them easy targets.

Residents are advised to take simple but vital steps:

• •Change default passwords immediately after activating any device.
• •Use strong, complex passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols.
• •Regularly update operating systems and apps to patch security gaps.
• •Avoid sharing personal details or passwords with unverified sources.
• •Switch off surveillance systems when not in use, especially in private spaces.
• •Stay alert to suspicious links or apps from unreliable platforms.

Dubai Police emphasised that awareness remains the first line of defence against cybercrime. To support the public, residents can access advice through the e-Crime Hub and report incidents via official channels or by calling 901 for non-emergency cases.

Authorities reiterated that community cooperation is key to reducing cybercrime and protecting individuals, families, and property in the digital age.

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The UAE will transition 50 per cent of its government services, operations and sectors to autonomous artificial intelligence systems within the next two years, under directives issued by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The major shift was announced on Thursday by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who said the country would move half of its government services to AI-driven systems as part of a new governance model.

Describing the initiative as a next-generation government system, Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE aims to become the first country in the world to adopt ‘agentic AI’ models capable of independently executing tasks, managing processes and supporting decision-making without direct human intervention.

He noted that advanced AI technologies are now able to monitor changes, analyse data, provide recommendations and carry out sequences of actions autonomously, adding that such systems would function as an executive partner to government entities. The move is expected to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery and enable real-time evaluation and optimisation across public sector operations.

Sheikh Mohammed also said that ministers, directors-general and federal entities would be assessed over the next two years based on how effectively they keep pace with the transformation, including the speed at which they adopt AI tools and implement new operational standards.

As part of the initiative, all federal government employees will undergo specialised training in artificial intelligence to build the capabilities required to support what has been described as one of the largest government transformation projects globally.

How AI shift could affect daily life

• Applications, approvals, and renewals could be processed much quicker.
• Expect fewer in-person visits and more services handled online.
• AI systems don’t sleep, some services may become available 24/7.
• Real-time tracking and instant status updates on requests.
• Policies and services may improve based on data-driven insights.
• Basic processes (like renewals or payments) could be fully automated.
• Problems or delays in services may be identified and fixed sooner.
• Increased reliance on digital systems may bring stronger data controls, but also higher awareness around privacy.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced plans to transform into the world’s first AI-native financial centre, embedding artificial intelligence across every layer of its operations as part of Dubai’s broader push to lead in advanced technologies.

The initiative will integrate AI into legal and regulatory systems, business operations, talent development, and even physical infrastructure, marking a shift from limited pilot projects to a fully AI-driven ecosystem.

AI at the core of DIFC’s strategy

While many global financial hubs are experimenting with AI, DIFC said its approach is different, placing AI at the core of how the centre functions, rather than using it selectively.

The groundwork for this transformation was laid in 2023 with the launch of a five-year AI strategy, alongside new data governance policies and regulations that formally incorporate AI into its legal framework.

Economic growth and job creation

Officials estimate the initiative could generate up to $3.5 billion (Dh12.9 billion) in economic benefits and create around 25,000 jobs, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a global financial and technology hub.

Building an AI-powered ecosystem

DIFC plans to provide companies with access to advanced AI tools, while also exporting governance models and trained talent to emerging markets.

By 2030, the centre aims to develop a fully integrated AI ecosystem, including robotics, autonomous mobility, and digital infrastructure, effectively creating a smart, AI-powered city within a city.

Supporting Dubai’s AI vision

The move aligns with Dubai’s wider economic agenda to lead in artificial intelligence and innovation.

The vision will also be highlighted during the Dubai AI Festival, taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre on October 26–27, where more than 20,000 participants from over 100 countries are expected to attend.