AI to Drive UAE’s Tech Shift from Fossil Fuels
The UAE is rapidly positioning itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and spearhead innovation. Dubai, a city that epitomizes the nation’s ambition with its towering skyscrapers and boundless progress, is the focal point of this technological shift. As part of this strategy, the country has unveiled plans to integrate AI into its lawmaking process, a move that could potentially accelerate legal updates by up to 70%.
AI-Driven Legal Framework: A Bold Move
Recently, the UAE announced the creation of an “AI-driven regulation” system. The system will proactively analyze a vast database of federal laws, court rulings, and government services. According to Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister, the aim is to make the lawmaking process more efficient and accurate. This new AI-driven approach will allow the UAE to draft and amend laws swiftly while continuously tracking their impact on society and the economy.
Despite these promises, there are concerns within the tech community about the potential shortcomings of AI in legal interpretations. AI models have been known to produce unreliable outputs and may struggle with complex legal nuances. Nevertheless, the UAE remains undeterred, prioritizing AI development as a national initiative with substantial investments flowing into the sector via the MGX sovereign wealth vehicle.
The UAE’s Ambitious AI Plans and Global Investments
Dubai is leading this AI revolution within the Emirates, with the government pursuing a holistic approach to ensure it stays ahead. Omar Sultan Al Olama, head of the UAE Ministry of State for Artificial Intelligence, emphasized the urgency and competitiveness of this mission. To further support its AI ambitions, the UAE has launched several initiatives. In March 2024, it established MGX, a $100 billion tech investment company, to fund AI infrastructure and data centers. Additionally, the country is investing heavily in AI research and development, as seen with the Technology Innovation Institute’s release of the Falcon language model.
The UAE’s approach to AI is not limited to software; it includes partnerships with global companies to build infrastructure. For instance, Emirati telecom giant E& is working on a 45,000-km undersea cable, while G42’s Khazna is building essential peripheral infrastructure. Furthermore, Mubadala is actively investing in international ventures, such as Yondr, a U.S.-based data center developer.
This ambitious plan aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy of becoming a hub for AI, innovation, and sustainable growth. With these steps, the country is not only aiming to reshape its economy but also position itself at the forefront of global AI development.
