Mohammed Bin Rashid School Of Government And Google Collaborate To Empower AI SMEs In The Region

The Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) has initiated a research collaboration with Google’s charitable organisation, Google.org, under the Google Digital Futures Project. This partnership focuses on primary fieldwork led by MBRSG’s Policy Research Department to explore opportunities and challenges for SMEs specialising in AI within the MENA region. The regional survey of SMEs commenced on 11 June, with findings expected later this year.

Another aspect of the project involves MBRSG’s policy research team, which will evaluate various policies and trends to integrate the MENA region into the global AI governance ecosystem. The announcement was made during the AI Retreat, held at the Museum of the Future in Dubai. The event was under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and organised by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) in collaboration with the National Program for Artificial Intelligence.

The AI Retreat saw participation from over 1,000 key decision-makers and experts from both government and private sectors. Discussions focused on accelerating AI adoption and exploring future trends and solutions. The event aimed to create more inclusive societies and a better future through AI advancements.

MBRSG’s collaboration with Google.org builds on previous UAE-focused research. Last year, MBRSG, in partnership with the Ministry of Economy and Google, released a report titled "The Future of Small and Medium Enterprises in the United Arab Emirates." This report examined challenges and opportunities for SMEs, aiming to establish a roadmap to enhance their role in the national economy.

Dr. Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, stated: "The ongoing collaboration with Google on locally and regionally focused policy research will unlock significant value owing to Google's leadership in AI and digital transformation." He emphasised that AI governance is crucial for improving government operations and creating a better future for upcoming generations.

Dr. Al Marri added that this partnership helps governments understand the ecosystem in which AI SMEs operate. This knowledge supports decision-makers in empowering SMEs to leverage advancements in AI, benefiting government operations, societal development, and the scientific community.

Martin Roeske, Director of Public Policy & Government Relations MENA at Google, highlighted that AI is driving significant shifts across various sectors. He noted that grants provided through the Google Digital Futures Project aim to promote independent research and dialogue for ethical AI development. By supporting institutions like MBRSG, Google aims to empower local experts advancing AI.

Dr. Fadi Salem, Director of the Policy Research Department at MBRSG, commented on the institution's two-decade focus on digital governance and technology policy. He stressed that this cooperation would enhance MBRSG’s research outputs and support decision-makers in integrating the Arab region into the global AI ecosystem.

Dr. Salem invited all startups and SMEs in the AI and digital transformation space within the region to participate in the survey to ensure their voices are heard.

With inputs from WAM