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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.

Dubai is taking a bold leap into the future of governance, with a sweeping directive aimed at making government services faster, simpler, and smarter for everyone.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has announced that all Dubai government entities must integrate their services into a single unified digital ecosystem within one year. The goal? Cut through complexity and deliver seamless, user-friendly experiences for both individuals and businesses.

Speaking during a visit to Digital Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan emphasised reducing the number of platforms people need to use, replacing them with streamlined, specialised systems that save time and effort.

“Our goal is to make life easier, and strengthen Dubai’s competitiveness as a global hub for business and investment,” he said.

Government powered by AI and data

This isn’t just about merging apps; it’s about reimagining how government works.

Dubai is building a fully AI-driven model, where:

• 100% of government performance will be data-based
• An algorithm bank will store ready-to-use machine learning models
• AI accelerators will power faster decision-making

The ambition is huge:

• Boost GDP by over Dh10 billion within two years
• Rank among the world’s top 10 cities in AI readiness
• Ensure 80% of policies are backed by AI-driven insights
• Upskill leaders so 100% are proficient in AI and analytics

Smarter systems, smoother services

Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed next-gen projects designed to make government operations more connected and efficient:

• Unified resource planning systems covering finance, HR, payroll, and procurement
• Agentic AI assistants that let users complete services through simple conversations
• Smart city sensors (IoT) that can detect risks like smoke or fires and instantly alert authorities

Imagine requesting a government service just by chatting with an AI, and having it completed in seconds. That’s the direction Dubai is heading.

By putting technology, data, and people’s needs at the centre, Dubai is aiming to create a system where government services feel less like bureaucracy and more like a seamless, everyday experience.