UAE to Deploy AI in 50% of Government Services in Two Years

First Government Worldwide to Implement Agentic AI Models at Scale

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to make history as the first government globally to deploy Agentic AI extensively across its public sector.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, made the announcement during a UAE Cabinet meeting, outlining an ambitious plan to embed autonomous AI systems into half of all government services and operations within two years.

The initiative, directed by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, represents a significant shift in government frameworks. Speaking at the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the transformative potential of AI, calling it a groundbreaking move for the nation.

“We announce today a new UAE government framework aiming to transform 50% of UAE Government sectors and services within two years to agentic AI for autonomous execution and decision-making,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “AI models can monitor changes, provide analyses, offer recommendations, manage operations, and run an independent series of actions without human intervention.”

The advanced AI systems, Sheikh Mohammed explained, will not merely automate tasks but will act as proactive collaborators within government operations. “AI will be our government executive partner to support decisions, enhance services, boost operational efficiency, and evaluate results in real time.”

To ensure successful implementation, government entities, ministers, and directors general will undergo evaluations based on their ability to adopt AI solutions, implement standards, and adapt to technological advancements within the designated two-year period. Extensive training programs will be rolled out for government employees to develop advanced AI capabilities. Sheikh Mohammed described the initiative as “the largest transformative government project in the next two years.”

Despite the focus on technological advancement, Sheikh Mohammed reiterated the importance of maintaining a people-centric approach. “The world is changing. Technology is advancing and accelerating. But one principle remains unchanged: people come first,” he said. “Our goal is to create the best environment to unlock their potential, improve their lives, and build a government that is faster, more responsive, and more impactful.”

This ambitious announcement signals a transition from digital transformation to fully autonomous, AI-driven government systems in the UAE. The integration plan includes embedding AI into policymaking, service delivery, and operations, aiming to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and enable proactive decision-making across government departments.

Implementation will occur in phases across ministries and federal entities, accompanied by continuous performance monitoring and impact assessments. The initiative will prioritize the development of national expertise, training employees to manage and collaborate with generative AI systems.

The project builds on the UAE’s legacy of innovation in government technology. Over the last two decades, the country has introduced groundbreaking initiatives, including the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the appointment of the world’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017, solidifying its reputation as a global pioneer in emergent technologies.