Dubai Future Foundation And Google Cloud Collaborate On Strategic Initiative For Chief AI Officers

Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and Google Cloud have launched a strategic programme to enhance the skills of Chief AI Officers (CAIOs). This initiative is designed to boost the practical expertise of AI leaders, aligning with Dubai's AI goals as outlined in the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence. The blueprint was introduced in April 2024 by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The programme will offer CAIOs access to Google Cloud's advanced AI tools, training, and strategic insights. This will enable them to lead impactful AI projects, drive innovation, and create tangible value within their organisations. The appointment of CAIOs across Dubai government entities is a key part of this effort.

Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, stated, "Dubai is leading the way globally with the appointment of Chief AI Officers in government—an initiative overseen by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in June 2023. Today, just one year on, we have CAIOs across government. At DFF, we’re committed to forming global partnerships that support these leaders in staying ahead in one of the world’s fastest-moving fields."

This collaboration aims to place Dubai among the top 10 cities on the global Government AI Readiness Index. It ensures that government leaders are equipped with necessary tools and insights to responsibly expand AI for societal benefit. The initiative also focuses on future-proofing government operations and reinforcing UAE's status as an innovation hub.

Ziad Jammal, General Manager for Google Cloud UAE, Levant and North Africa, commented, "This initiative couldn't come at a more important time. Investing in the capabilities of Dubai’s Chief AI Officers is essential to future-proofing government and reinforcing the UAE's role as a global innovation hub. By equipping them with advanced knowledge in applied AI, we’re accelerating adoption and laying the groundwork for transformative impact across sectors."

The initiative builds on previous achievements under the blueprint launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It supports CAIOs in staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field through global partnerships facilitated by DFF.

With inputs from WAM