UAE became the first country in the GCC and the entire world to have a minister of artificial intelligence. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Prime Minister and Vice President and Ruler of Dubai announced the new post via Twitter. He further explained that the primary goal of the new ministry would be to represent the new Emirati percentage, to develop knowledge, and enhance science and research.
The 27-year-old Omar Bin Sultan Al Olama topped the new ministry after the significant cabinet reshuffle earlier this week. Al Olama would implement the recently adopted UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in line with the UAE Centennial 2071 objectives.
The ambitious strategy aims to create an innovative and efficient environment using the AI and its applications across public domains. The government would ensure the best possible use of all the available resources and human potential to accelerate the execution of developmental projects. Dubai adopted the Smart Governance and launched electronic services 16 ago, now it would turn to AI to expedite the government services at all levels. The government would also invest in local talents, well-versatile in AI.
As per the newly-announced 2071 Strategy, the Emirate aims to become a leading international hub for developing AI techniques and legislation. The Ruler of Dubai stated the AI would not only generate revenues in the long-run, but it would also provide many new opportunities for the local economy.
The new structural changes in the UAE cabinet also included the appointment of six new ministers, including three women. Therefore, the female presence in the government was increased by 30%. Among the new positions are the Minister of Food Security and the Minister of Advanced Sciences. The 30-year-old Sara al Amiri would top the Ministry of Advanced Sciences, announced the Ruler of Dubai. She would be in charge of the R&D projects. She would also chair the UAE Council of Scientists and the national Mars Mission.