His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has endorsed a comprehensive suite of artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives designed to fast-track Dubai’s technological transformation and advance its digital development across multiple sectors, Xpats.ae reports.
The newly approved projects include the launch of the ‘AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform,’ the establishment of the ‘Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce,’ and the introduction of the ‘Unicorn 30 Programme.’ These initiatives were approved during the second 2025 session of the Higher Committee for Future Technology Development and the Digital Economy, where Sheikh Hamdan reviewed recent achievements and progress made toward future-readiness goals.
His Highness reaffirmed Dubai’s unwavering commitment to its ambition of becoming the fastest, smartest, and most future-ready city globally in adopting AI and emerging technologies. He emphasized that Dubai’s transformation journey follows the visionary directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, whose leadership aims to establish a robust digital economy powered by innovation and knowledge—positioning the emirate as a central global hub for advanced technologies.
Sheikh Hamdan affirmed, “Our direction is clear, and our strategic priorities are firmly in place. Our continuous objective is to elevate the readiness of government entities not only to keep pace with digital changes but also to harness AI tools to deliver more efficient, secure, and innovative public services that align with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).”
He further noted that Dubai’s achievements are grounded in collaboration and collective efforts across all government sectors, resulting in an integrated ecosystem that encourages data sharing, improves efficiency, and keeps the social and economic well-being of residents at the forefront. He affirmed that Dubai will persist in strengthening its global reputation as a hub for talent, innovation, and technological excellence, with every milestone marking progress toward becoming a global model in smart governance and sustainable urban development.
AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform
During the committee session, Sheikh Hamdan approved the launch of the ‘AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform,’ a cutting-edge digital ecosystem that will enable Dubai government entities to scale the deployment of AI solutions across vital sectors. The platform combines advanced digital infrastructure with pre-integrated smart services, ensuring enhanced quality, faster service delivery, cost efficiency, and top-tier cybersecurity protocols. Key goals include improving government operational efficiency through shared infrastructure, optimizing resources, and enhancing governance and data security measures to protect institutional data integrity.
Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce
The committee also approved the formation of the ‘Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce,’ aimed at promoting stronger inter-agency cooperation and harmonizing AI strategies across government bodies. Following consultations led by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) with Chief AI Officers from 27 entities, the new taskforce will focus on fostering institutional collaboration, expediting AI adoption, and ensuring a measurable impact on Dubai’s digital transformation roadmap.
Unicorn 30 Programme
Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan endorsed the launch of the ‘Unicorn 30 Programme,’ initiated by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy in partnership with 80 regional and global companies involved in entrepreneurship and startup growth. The programme aspires to accelerate the development of 30 high-potential startups in new economic fields, helping them evolve into billion-dollar enterprises headquartered in Dubai. Operating under the Dubai Founders HQ, it introduces 10 pillars of support covering funding, business expansion, regulation, and governance—enhancing Dubai’s appeal as a global center for entrepreneurship and digital innovation.
GITEX Global 2026 and Progress Report
The committee also reviewed preparations for GITEX Global 2026, which will commemorate the event’s 45th anniversary. The next edition will move to Expo City Dubai, expanding its global participation and showcasing upgraded facilities in a sustainable, forward-looking environment aligned with the city’s future vision. The session also featured updates on recent accomplishments, including the Dubai PropTech Hub—a first-of-its-kind platform in the region established in July 2024 to attract 200 specialized property technology companies by 2030 and aim to create over 3,000 skilled jobs. Furthermore, members reviewed the operational strategy of Dubai Founders HQ, recently launched to strengthen the startup ecosystem.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including His Excellency Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications; His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of the Dubai Digital Authority; His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation; His Excellency Ahmed bin Byat, Vice Chair of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy; His Excellency Malek Al Malek, Director General of the Dubai Development Authority; Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority; and Maha Al Mezaina, General Rapporteur of the Committee.
