Dubai AI+ Programme to Train 50,000 Government Employees in AI and Smart Services
Dubai has unveiled a large-scale artificial intelligence initiative aimed at transforming its public sector workforce, with plans to train 50,000 government employees in advanced digital skills. The programme, titled the AI Workforce Transformation Programme (AI+), reflects the emirate’s growing ambition to lead globally in AI-driven governance and smart government services. A bold step into the future.
Launched by Digital Dubai in collaboration with the Dubai Government Human Resources Department and the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence, the initiative operates under the umbrella of the Dubai Future Foundation. It is designed not just as a training effort but as a broader transformation strategy to embed artificial intelligence across all levels of government operations. A transformation, not just training.
At its core, the programme aims to equip employees with practical, hands-on AI skills that can be directly applied in their daily work. Officials say this will help improve productivity, enhance decision-making, and enable faster, more efficient public services. Rather than treating AI as a specialised technical tool, the initiative seeks to make it an integral part of routine government functions. AI as a daily tool.
A key feature of the AI+ programme is its structured and role-based learning approach. Instead of offering generic training, the initiative provides tailored modules based on job responsibilities. Senior leaders will participate in sessions focused on AI strategy and policy, while Chief AI Officers will receive specialised guidance on implementing AI frameworks across departments. Role-based learning for real impact.
Meanwhile, product and service teams will be trained to identify opportunities for AI integration and develop practical use cases, while managers will learn how to incorporate AI tools into workflows and optimise team performance. For general employees, the focus will be on building essential skills such as using AI-powered tools, automating routine tasks, and applying techniques like prompt engineering. Skills for every role.
Officials have highlighted that the initiative represents a shift in how government employees interact with technology. Rather than being passive users of digital systems, employees are expected to become active contributors in designing smarter, more responsive public services. This transition is seen as central to creating a more proactive governance model that anticipates citizen needs instead of simply reacting to them. From passive to proactive.
The programme also aligns closely with Dubai’s broader economic and technological strategies. It supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy over the next decade, with digital transformation and advanced technologies playing a key role. At the same time, it complements the UAE’s national artificial intelligence strategy, which positions AI as a major driver of economic growth and innovation. Aligned with D33 and national AI strategy.
Another important aspect of the initiative is its focus on fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the public sector. By investing in human capital, Dubai aims to ensure that its workforce remains adaptable and capable of keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies. This approach recognises that successful digital transformation depends not only on infrastructure but also on people. People first, technology second.
Experts note that Dubai’s strategy reflects a global shift in how organisations are approaching AI adoption. Governments and businesses alike are increasingly prioritising workforce development alongside technological investment, ensuring that employees can effectively collaborate with AI systems rather than be replaced by them. Humans and AI, working together.
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Ultimately, the AI Workforce Transformation Programme is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and quality of government services in Dubai. By training 50,000 employees in artificial intelligence, the emirate is taking a decisive step toward building a smarter, more agile, and future-ready public sector—one where technology and human expertise work together to deliver better outcomes for citizens. A smarter, more agile public sector. Dubai leads the way in AI-driven governance.
