UAE's AI And Blockchain Council Marks Completion Of Key Phase 2 Initiatives

Omar Sultan AlOlama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, has recently underscored the imperative for heightened efforts and the amalgamation of initiatives at a national scale to fortify the UAE's leading position in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. This was articulated during a virtual assembly of the UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, where AlOlama stressed the significance of adopting a forward-thinking stance to bolster the advanced digital infrastructure. The council deliberated on the advancements of its second phase, focusing on the activation and implementation of initiatives by its subcommittees to meet the strategic AI objectives of the UAE.

AlOlama also shed light on the government's pledge to expedite the development and assimilation of AI technology solutions, in line with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The UAE is keen on navigating future AI trajectories and devising innovative solutions to boost its competitive edge and leadership across various fields.

Younis Haji Al Khoori, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to digital transformation and advancing solutions that fuel growth across sectors. The ministry is actively engaged in formulating AI systems, projects, and initiatives, including a generative AI platform and a Metaverse platform for digital procurement. These endeavors align with the UAE government’s vision to craft innovative and efficient government services.

The Ministry of Finance has introduced an updated catalogue for its Digital Procurement Platform, streamlining procurement processes for federal entities by incorporating technological and commercial best practices. This platform facilitates electronic signing, online contracts, and electronic registration and data updates for companies involved in federal government tenders.

Omar Alsuwaidi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of the Industry Sector Committee in the Council, emphasized the committee's dedication to aiding industrial companies in their technological evolution. The committee's objectives include fostering innovation, integrating advanced technology into industrial systems and solutions, and reinforcing the UAE's status as a prime destination for future industries. To date, assessments have been conducted for 389 companies within the industrial sector.

The Council wrapped up the second phase of its subcommittees' initiatives aimed at boosting AI adoption within government entities to enhance the UAE's competitiveness in key sectors. Additionally, updates on the UAE Artificial Intelligence Award were discussed along with showcasing mechanisms and updates related to the digital procurement platform by the Committee for Regulating Artificial Intelligence Purchases in Government Entities. The Industry Sector Committee presented a Guide to Use Cases for the Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI), designed to empower the UAE's industrial ecosystem through AI and advanced technological solutions.

In conclusion, through concerted efforts towards integrating initiatives and developing advanced solutions, alongside technological transformation across various sectors, the UAE remains committed to maintaining its global leadership in artificial intelligence.

With inputs from WAM