UAE to Shift 50% of Government Services to Autonomous AI Within Two Years

UAE Introduces New Data Policies to Power AI-Based Government Systems

The United Arab Emirates has unveiled an ambitious plan to shift 50 per cent of government sectors, services and operations to autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) within the next two years, under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The announcement was made by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, marking a major step toward a technology-driven governance model.

In a statement on his official X account, Sheikh Mohammed said the UAE aims to become the first country globally to adopt “agentic AI”, a system capable of independent decision-making, task execution and process management. He emphasised that advanced AI can now monitor changes, analyse data, generate recommendations and perform actions without human intervention, positioning it as an executive partner to government operations.

The initiative will introduce performance-based evaluations for ministers, directors-general and federal entities, measuring how effectively they implement AI tools and adapt to transformation goals. At the same time, all federal employees will undergo specialised AI training, ensuring the workforce is equipped to lead what is being described as one of the largest government transformation projects in the region.

Oversight of the programme will be led by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, while a dedicated task force headed by Mohammad Al Gergawi will supervise execution. The rollout will follow a phased implementation strategy, supported by continuous performance and impact assessments, with the goal of reducing costs, boosting productivity and improving service efficiency.

This initiative builds on more than 20 years of digital transformation, from early eGovernment systems to advanced platforms like UAE Pass and data-driven service delivery models. The UAE has consistently positioned itself as a leader in AI, having launched the Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and created a dedicated ministry for AI, digital economy and remote work applications.

During the Cabinet meeting, several policies were approved to strengthen the government services ecosystem. These include the UAE Code for Government Services and Zero Bureaucracy, aimed at simplifying procedures, enhancing customer experience and standardising service delivery. A new digital records policy will ensure data transparency, accuracy and national alignment, while a data sharing policy promotes the principle of “collect once, use securely across entities”.

A federal guide for digital project alignment was also introduced to improve resource efficiency, governance and long-term impact, encouraging reuse of digital infrastructure and avoiding duplication. Additional initiatives include a geographical indication framework to protect national products and a digital postal addressing system to enhance logistics and smart city development.

The Cabinet further approved updates to key institutions, including the Higher Committee for Free Trade Negotiations and the Emirates Development Bank board, alongside reviewing sustainability efforts under the National Biofuel Policy 2025. Projects include converting 500,000 tonnes of waste into sustainable aviation fuel and expanding biodiesel production capacity.

On the international front, the UAE strengthened its global engagement by approving 16 international agreements covering economic partnerships, scientific research, labour, intellectual property and environmental sustainability. It also launched a global alliance for energy efficiency, joined the International Accreditation Organisation, and introduced a national conservation plan for ivory and rhinoceros.

Looking ahead, the UAE will host major global events, including World Mathematics Day 2026 and international conferences on biodiversity, food security and the digital economy, reinforcing its role as a global hub for innovation and collaboration.

Sheikh Mohammed stressed that despite rapid technological advancement, people will remain at the centre of government priorities, with the ultimate aim of enhancing quality of life and enabling human potential.

24 Th April 2026