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The UAE’s artificial intelligence sector is among the most advanced in the world . The Gulf state appointed the world’s first AI minister in 2017, established the first dedicated AI research university in 2020, and launched a top-rated open-source LLM in 2023. “AI is not a luxury, it is a necessity in this day and age,” said Omar Al Olama, UAE’s Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, at Dubai’s AI Retreat. The event, attended by over 1,000 AI experts, policymakers, and industry leaders, was held at the Museum of the Future under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai. It highlighted the objectives of Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence, aiming to make Dubai a leading city for AI adoption. US tech firms had a notable presence at the 2024 AI retreat, which took place shortly after the appointment of 22 chief AI officers to various government departments, including Dubai Police, Dubai Roads and...

Microsoft UAE recently hosted the ‘Microsoft Build : AI Day’ tour in the UAE, bringing together government officials, technologists, innovators, IT decision-makers, and business professionals to discuss the transformative power of AI. The event featured speeches from esteemed officials and experts. Naim Yazbeck, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, highlighted the company’s plans for the MENA region and the evolving tech landscape in a conversation with Edge Middle East. **Microsoft to Increase Investment in MENA** Yazbeck described AI as “the biggest tech innovation since the internet,” emphasizing its widespread impact. He noted that AI innovations are now emerging from the region, citing examples like Falcon and Jais, developed in the Emirates and now going global. “AI allows smaller countries and businesses to innovate at scale,” he said. He praised market competition for driving innovation, affirming Microsoft’s leadership position. Yazbeck also announced the company'...