Dubai Media Academy has launched a new initiative aimed at developing AI tools that can better understand and support Arabic content, especially the unique languages, dialects, and cultures across the Arab world.

The “Artificial Intelligence Initiative in Arab Media” was announced during Dubai AI Week, which is running from April 21 to 25.

The idea came out of a series of discussions and workshops held by the Academy over the past year, where experts pointed out a big problem: Most current AI tools don’t work well with Arabic, especially when it comes to different dialects and cultural meanings.

To fix this, Dubai Media Academy will be working with media companies, tech developers, universities, and researchers to build better tools. These will help in areas like:

• Representing different Arabic dialects more accurately
• Making sure visual content is authentic
• Improving the quality and availability of Arabic-language data used for AI training

Muna Busamra, Director of Dubai Media Academy, said the initiative is a direct response to what people in the media industry have been asking for.

“We saw a clear need for AI tools that truly understand Arabic and reflect the diversity of Arab societies,” she said. 

“This project supports Arab media in keeping our identity alive, while helping us stand out globally.”

During Dubai AI Week, the academy will host special workshops and talks, and more partnerships and projects will be announced later this year.

(Source: Wam)

Dubai is gearing up for one of the most exciting tech events of the year, Dubai AI Week 2025, which will run from April 21 to 25. To make it easier for visitors to view the event, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is offering free shuttle bus services throughout the event. Visitors can catch the shuttle between Al Wasl Club’s designated parking and Emirates Towers, ensuring easy access to all the action.

A Week Powered by AI

Organised by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), the event will take over iconic venues like the Museum of the Future and Area 2071 at Emirates Towers. Expect an interesting line-up of global AI leaders, researchers, startups, and tech enthusiasts exploring the future of artificial intelligence.

Must-See: ‘Machines Can See’ AI Summit

One of the headline events is the ‘Machines Can See’ AI Summit, happening on April 23 and 24 at the Museum of the Future. This third edition will dive deep into the theme, “Good AI: Making the World a Safer Place,” with more than 20 keynotes and panels across sectors like robotics, autonomous vehicles, fashion, and art.

The summit will also feature interactive expo zones, including:

• A startup showcase for breakthrough innovations
• A university zone spotlighting cutting-edge research from UAE institutions

What Else Is Happening?

Dubai AI Week is packed with initiatives designed to explore AI’s role in transforming industries and everyday life. Key events include:

• AI Retreat – Shaping the future of AI policy
• Dubai Assembly for AI – Gathering global minds
• Global Prompt Engineering Championship
• Agentic AI Hackathon – Innovation through collaboration
• Dubai AI Festival – Public engagement in AI
• AI Week in Schools – Inspiring the next generation

Dubai’s Bold AI Vision

From government and education to startups and investment, Dubai AI Week 2025 is all about preparing the city for an AI-driven future. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, investor, student, or policymaker, this is where the future of AI takes centre stage.

(Source: @rta_dubai)

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced the successful testing of new biometric ID systems that could replace the need for physical Emirates ID cards.

These high-tech systems use facial recognition and artificial intelligence (AI), and can be accessed through the Authority’s smart app. Developed with the help of key partners, the new technology aims to improve security, accuracy, and ease of use without replacing the current ID system just yet.

Where It Will Be Used

The new digital ID system is expected to be rolled out across major sectors, including government, banking, telecoms, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance, all areas where secure and accurate identification is vital.

The ICP has confirmed that these systems follow strict technical checks and data protection laws, ensuring safety and privacy for users.

This update was shared in a written response to a Federal National Council (FNC) member’s question about how electronic IDs can improve public services.

Step-by-Step Roll-Out

The ICP explained that the switch to digital identity is being carried out in phases. It began with the digitalisation of basic services and is now expanding to more complex ones. The full roll-out is expected within a year, starting with the services mentioned by the FNC.

The Authority is working with top organisations to bring the new systems into their platforms, supporting the UAE’s goal of becoming a global leader in digital innovation.

“Digital identity is more than just a tool — it opens the door to better services, stronger security, and more convenience,” the Authority said.

Cutting Red Tape

As part of its wider digital transformation, the ICP launched a campaign in August 2024 to reduce government bureaucracy. Called The Month of Eliminating Government Bureaucracy, the campaign encouraged both government workers and the public to suggest ways to improve services.

Events were held in shopping centres, community spaces, and service centres across the Emirates to gather feedback and ideas.

Award for Innovation

To support the campaign, the ICP introduced the Bureaucracy Elimination Award. Open to employees, service users, and partners, the award recognises ideas that help make government processes simpler and more efficient.

(Source: GN)