Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved a new AI authority Sunday, June 15, as part of his broader push to modernise government services. The decision creates a federal body to oversee artificial intelligence and data, unifying the country's digital transformation under one national umbrella. The authority is intended to improve decision‑making, enhance public services and raise quality of life, while keeping the UAE competitive and a leader in the digital economy. In a statement, Sheikh Mohammed said, "Today we approved the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority, the single national body responsible for data, artificial intelligence and digital government in the UAE, reporting directly to the Cabinet." He added that the government of the future would run on data and agentic AI, be faster, smarter and built around people rather than paperwork. "Today we approved the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority, the single national body responsible for data, artificial intelligence and digital government in the UAE, reporting directly to the Cabinet." — Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice‑President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
Authority structure and leadership The new authority will be chaired by Omar Al Olama, who serves as Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications. His portfolio already covers AI policy, digital commerce and remote‑work frameworks, positioning him to steer the agency’s strategy and align it with the Cabinet’s vision for a faster, smarter government. Omar Al Olama is expected to coordinate with federal and local entities to embed AI tools across public services. By reporting directly to the Cabinet, the authority gains a clear line to the highest decision‑making body, enabling swift policy implementation and integration of AI initiatives.
Mandate and national goals Key responsibilities outlined for the authority include unifying national directions, proposing public policies, legislation and strategies, and ensuring integration of digital initiatives at both federal and local levels. The agency will also develop and lead the national AI strategy, aiming to increase the digital economy’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP and to keep the nation at the forefront of AI innovation. In a related move, the UAE plans to train 80,000 government employees in agentic AI, equipping the public sector with skills to embed AI into daily operations and service delivery. This training is expected to boost demand for AI specialists, data professionals and digital‑transformation experts, accelerating the country’s transition to an AI‑driven economy.
Frequently asked questions
Who is leading the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority?The Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority is chaired by Omar Al Olama, who serves as the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.
What is the purpose of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority?The authority aims to unify AI and data efforts, improve government services, enhance public decision‑making, and position the UAE as a leader in the digital economy.
When was the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority established?The Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority was approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on Sunday, June 15.
How does the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority operate?It reports directly to the Cabinet and coordinates with federal and local entities to integrate AI tools into public services and digital governance.
What are the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority's key responsibilities?Its responsibilities include unifying national AI strategies, proposing policies and legislation, and ensuring digital initiatives align with both federal and local government goals.
