The “Arab Government Outlook 2026” report confirmed the United Arab Emirates’ global superiority in the tech race, recording the highest rate of artificial intelligence tool usage among institutions, backed by multi-billion-dollar investments and an ambitious government vision.
- Global records
- Massive investments and fierce competition
- Government readiness challenges
- Redesigning government work
- Frequently asked questions
Global records
Dr. Yasar Jarrar, member of the Board of Trustees at the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, revealed the results of a Microsoft study showing that the UAE recorded a 97 percent usage rate for artificial intelligence tools, the highest globally. This figure significantly outperforms the global average, where 88 percent of organizations use artificial intelligence in at least one function, reflecting the depth of technological adoption in the country.
Massive investments and fierce competition
This superiority is driven by massive investments totaling $120 billion poured by the UAE into this sector. The country thus enters direct competition with major powers such as China, which invested $47.5 billion, and Saudi Arabia, which allocated $100 billion. The report notes that artificial intelligence has become a sovereign and political priority for nations, with expectations of adding $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
Government readiness challenges
Despite the impressive figures, the report warned that introducing artificial intelligence into traditional government structures could turn into a burden. Jarrar pointed to the paradox of having ambitious strategies countered by institutions that are not fully prepared, as they were not designed to accommodate the speed and operational mechanisms of modern algorithms.
Redesigning government work
The report recommended the necessity of “redesigning” government administration from the ground up, rather than merely digitizing current procedures. It considered the next two years crucial for laying the necessary groundwork for the success of these technologies by improving data quality, unifying governance, and updating administrative mindsets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the artificial intelligence usage rate in the UAE?
The country recorded 97 percent, the highest globally according to the report.
What is the main challenge facing governments?
Institutional readiness weaknesses and the need to change traditional work structures to match modern technology.
What is the volume of UAE investment in artificial intelligence?
Investments reached approximately $120 billion.
