In a strategic move shaping the future of digital governance, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, announced on Thursday a historic initiative aimed at transforming 50 percent of government sectors, services, and operations to run on autonomous and agentic artificial intelligence within just two years. These systems represent self-directed technologies capable of analyzing complex data, making precise decisions, and executing tasks in real time without direct human intervention.
This pioneering initiative comes under the directives of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and aims to make the United Arab Emirates the first government in the world to operate at this wide and deep scale through autonomous systems, cementing its position as a global capital for technological innovation and advanced administrative development.
An executive partner, not just a tool
Today, technology has transcended the concept of traditional use. In this context, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized via the “X” platform that artificial intelligence is no longer a regular tool, but has become an integrated executive partner. He stated: “Artificial intelligence analyzes, decides, executes, and optimizes in real time. It will become our executive partner to enhance services, accelerate decisions, and raise efficiency.”
The UAE leadership has set a strict two-year timeframe to evaluate performance and results. During this period, the performance of ministers, general managers, and federal entities will be assessed based on the speed of adopting these advanced technologies, the quality of execution, and their ability to seamlessly integrate artificial intelligence solutions into daily government workflows to ensure the highest levels of quality and excellence.
Redesigning government policies and operations
This ambitious project is not limited to simply adding new technologies; rather, it will completely redesign government policies, operations, and procedures to center around superior artificial intelligence capabilities. This will enable smart systems to execute tasks proactively and autonomously, directly contributing to reduced operational costs, enhanced productivity, and accelerated completion of both routine and complex transactions.
The project will be implemented according to a phased and deliberate approach involving various ministries and federal entities. This stage-by-stage application will rely on continuous performance evaluation and measurement of actual impact before expanding in scope to encompass all corridors of the federal government, ensuring an efficient digital transition and avoiding any disruption in public service delivery.
Investing in human capital and training
Despite the heavy reliance on machines and smart technologies, the UAE government recognizes that humanity is the primary driver of any technological development. Therefore, every federal employee will undergo specialized and intensive training programs in this modern field. This massive investment in human capital aims to build what Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid described as “one of the world’s strongest capabilities in AI-driven government management.”
To ensure the realization of this comprehensive and integrated vision, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister, will directly oversee the initiative. Meanwhile, a specialized task force chaired by Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, will lead field implementation operations and monitor achievement on a daily basis.
Culmination of two decades of digital transformation
This announcement is not a momentary occurrence, but rather the logical and natural culmination of two decades of continuous digital transformation in the United Arab Emirates. This ambitious journey began with the early adoption of e-government and smart government concepts, clearly manifested in 2017 when the UAE appointed the world’s first Minister of State dedicated to this field, followed by the launch of the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031. These successive steps prove that the nation is proceeding according to a long-term strategic plan to remain at the forefront of developed nations.
Humans first, above all else
Despite the massive scale of automation and technical changes planned to develop the structure of government work, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stressed that the human element will always remain at the forefront of priorities. He concluded his profound and influential message by saying: “The world is changing. Technology is accelerating. Our principle remains steadfast: humans first. Our goal is a faster, more responsive, and more impactful government.” These words reflect a firm commitment that all technological progress must ultimately serve society and improve the quality of life for individuals and citizens, making the UAE experience a unique model that skillfully combines technical innovation with human care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the new UAE initiative?
The initiative aims to operate 50 percent of government sectors and operations using autonomous and agentic artificial intelligence systems in just two years, making the UAE a global leader in this advanced field.
When will this technical transformation be fully implemented in the government sector?
The UAE leadership has set a strict two-year timeframe to implement this strategic transformation and evaluate the performance of ministers and federal entities in efficiently adopting these technologies.
Will reliance on modern technology marginalize human capital?
Quite the contrary; the leadership emphasized that the “humans first” principle is fixed and unchanging. Every federal employee will undergo specialized training programs to elevate government management efficiency, enhance employee capabilities, and better invest their energies.
