Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, on Thursday hailed the emirate for being at the "forefront of technological transformation", after revealing more than 800 artificial intelligence companies are operating in the city.
Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai's "advanced infrastructure, progressive regulations and innovative service" were key factors in attracting cutting-edge businesses.
He described AI's pivotal role in shaping future progress after reviewing a recent study on the rapid growth of the high-tech sector.
"Today I reviewed a Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence study, which reveals that over 800 AI companies are thriving in Dubai," Sheikh Hamdan wrote on social media platform X.
"They have chosen Dubai as their base due to the city’s advanced infrastructure, progressive regulations, and innovative services, all driven by the city’s plan to accelerate AI adoption.
“As AI shapes the future, our success lies in making bold decisions and creating a business environment that fosters global excellence. Powered by national talent and global partnerships, Dubai stands at the forefront of technological transformation. The future is Dubai, and Dubai is the future.''
Sheikh Hamdan stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in driving Dubai's AI ecosystem, noting that the emirate's strategic initiatives and plans have been instrumental in attracting substantial investments in AI.
The report highlights significant growth in Dubai's AI sector, with a marked increase in the number and calibre of companies specialising in AI applications, software and solutions in a short time.
The report found nearly three quarters of these companies are small, medium or start-up enterprises, with two thirds choosing Dubai as their headquarters.
The DCAI report was unveiled by Sheikh Hamdan at Area 2071 in Emirates Towers. "The report seeks to support Dubai's government entities in harnessing future technologies to drive transformation across key sectors,'' Dubai Media Office said.
In November, Sheikh Hamdan set out plans to train one million people in artificial intelligence. He revealed the scheme after a meeting with the president of Microsoft at the UAE Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi.
In the same month, the UAE was ranked fifth on the Global Vibrancy Tool 2024, indicating its position as a leader in artificial intelligence.
Developed by the Stanford Institute for Human-Centred AI, the tool evaluates 36 countries across 42 AI-specific indicators, including research output, private investment, patents and infrastructure.
Sheikh Hamdan launched a roadmap in June to help attract top companies and talent in AI to Dubai. The AI Roadmap aims to enhance the overall quality of life in the emirate by boosting the adoption of AI.