All Major Tech Developments in the UAE Last Week: May 2025
The UAE continues to set benchmarks in digital transformation, AI, and tech-driven innovation. Last week saw several major breakthroughs, from blockchain-powered document verification to world-firsts in AI, digital government, and mobility. Below are the top developments, each underscoring the nation’s ambition to lead the region and the world in technological progress.
1. UAE Verify Certifies Nearly 22 Million Digital Documents
The UAE Verify platform, under the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), has certified nearly 22 million digital documents since its 2022 launch. Supporting 55 document types from 22 government entities, the blockchain-based system enables instant, secure authentication for both public and private sectors. This milestone highlights the UAE’s commitment to efficient, paperless governance and robust digital infrastructure.
2. Dubai Unveils Region’s First Tokenized Property Investment Platform
Dubai launched the MENA region’s first licensed tokenized real estate project, allowing investors to purchase property shares starting from just $545. Built on blockchain and operated via the Prypco Mint platform, this initiative democratizes property investment, increases liquidity, and signals Dubai’s leadership in digital asset innovation. Zand Digital Bank supports the platform, ensuring regulatory compliance and financial security.
3. UAE’s First Electric Air Taxi May Launch in 2025
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are preparing to introduce electric air taxi (eVTOL) services as early as late 2025, with full commercial rollout expected in 2026. Partnerships with Archer and Joby Aviation are underway, and dedicated “vertiports” are being constructed. The service aims to cut travel times between emirates to under 30 minutes, positioning the UAE at the forefront of urban air mobility.
4. UAE First to Offer Nationwide Access to ChatGPT
The UAE became the first nation globally to provide all residents with free access to ChatGPT Plus, the premium version of OpenAI’s chatbot. This move, part of a landmark partnership between the UAE government and OpenAI, aims to boost digital literacy and AI adoption. It is powered by the Stargate UAE project, a massive AI supercomputing hub under construction in Abu Dhabi.
5. Robots to Assist Shoppers in UAE Mall Pilot
Dubai launched a pilot program at City Centre Mirdif where avatar-style robots help shoppers navigate the mall. Developed through a partnership between Dubai Future Foundation and Majid Al Futtaim, the robots offer real-time assistance and gather feedback to improve retail experiences. This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to integrate robotics across key sectors.
6. UAE Ranks First in Global Digital Government Report
The UAE topped three major global indices for telecommunications infrastructure, digital government frameworks, and digital content, according to the State of Digital Transformation Report. The country also ranked first in the Government AI Readiness Index 2024, reflecting its leadership in digital governance and commitment to seamless, tech-driven public services.
7. UAE Announces Eid Al Adha 2025 Date as June 6
The UAE officially declared Friday, June 6, 2025, as the date for Eid Al Adha, granting residents a four-day public holiday. The announcement, based on moon sighting, aligns the UAE with other Gulf nations and impacts business, travel, and public sector schedules nationwide.
8. Dubai Introduces the World’s First AI-Powered Chef
Dubai is set to open WOOHOO, the world’s first restaurant run by an AI-powered chef named Aiman, developed by UAE tech firm UMAI. Chef Aiman can create recipes, manage kitchen operations, and collaborate with human chefs, blending culinary creativity with AI precision. This innovation highlights Dubai’s pioneering role in merging technology with hospitality.
These developments collectively reinforce the UAE’s position as a global leader in digital transformation, AI innovation, and future-ready public services.
