The UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, chaired by Minister of State Omar Sultan Al Olama, convened in Sharjah to assess progress on national AI initiatives and discuss strategic developments, including enhancements to the Golden Visa programme for technology professionals.
Council members evaluated the integration of AI across government entities, focusing on improving service delivery and operational efficiency. The meeting included updates on the UAE Artificial Intelligence Award, recognising federal, local, and semi-governmental entities for effective AI applications. New award categories aim to broaden participation and encourage innovation in AI-driven public services.
Discussions also covered the expansion of the Golden Visa programme to attract global tech talent. The UAE recently introduced five new eligibility categories, including digital content creation and e-sports, offering 10-year residencies to professionals in these fields.
The council reviewed the development of the national energy and infrastructure data platform, emphasising its role in supporting AI integration and informed decision-making. Plans to enhance data centre infrastructure were also discussed, aligning with the UAE’s goal of becoming a global AI application hub.
Minister Al Olama highlighted the importance of cohesive efforts across sectors to advance the UAE’s position in AI and digital innovation. He underscored the government’s commitment to developing scalable digital infrastructure and regulatory frameworks that keep pace with technological advancements.
