UAE Emerges as Top AI Talent Destination After USA
Gitex 2024: UAE Attracts AI Talent After USA, Says Economic Minister
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is becoming one of the world's most significant hubs for technology and innovation at a rapid pace. At the 2024 Gitex Global event, the largest tech exhibition and conference in the region, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE's Minister of Economy, emphasized that the country has become a desirable destination for artificial intelligence (AI) experts. The UAE is now the second most sought-after location globally for AI talent, right after the USA, further solidifying its global technological role.
AI Talent Influx and UAE’s Role
Traditionally, the United States has led in AI technology development, but the UAE has remarkably accelerated its growth in this field in recent years. In his speech, Al Marri highlighted that the UAE government's efforts and investments have significantly contributed to its recognition as a global AI talent hub. “We are at a critical point in AI development, and the UAE aims to become a global R&D center with the finest professionals working on tomorrow's technologies,” said the minister.
Al Marri elaborated that attracting, developing, and retaining talent is a key goal of the UAE's AI strategy, enabling the country to lead in researching and practically applying new technologies. This strategy is a crucial element of the UAE's comprehensive economic and technological transformation, which includes the extensive application of AI technologies across various sectors, such as healthcare, transportation, energy, and education.
Developing the AI and Innovation Ecosystem
The UAE’s AI strategy began in 2017 when the country announced its ambition for widespread AI technology application and strengthening the innovation ecosystem. Since then, the country has launched numerous initiatives, including establishing public and private AI research centers, AI training programs, and professional development programs, as well as forming global partnerships to attract and develop talent.
The technologies and innovations presented at Gitex Global 2024 reflected the country’s commitment to AI. The minister stressed that AI is at the core of technological development, significantly impacting the UAE's economy and society. AI not only promotes economic growth but also creates new jobs and opens new industries, attracting further investments into the country.
UAE's Global Aim: Becoming a Leading AI Hub
Al Marri made it clear that the UAE's long-term objective is to become a global center for AI development and application. To achieve this, the country leverages its strategic location, rapidly developing technological infrastructure, and open economy. The minister emphasized that the UAE government plans to continue significant investments in AI technology research and development, recognizing its crucial role in the economic and social development of the country.
The technologies showcased and the presence of global participants at Gitex Global 2024 reaffirmed the UAE's position as a nation investing in future technologies. International companies and AI experts attending the event praised the UAE’s contributions to AI developments and acknowledged that the country will significantly influence future AI trends.
The Future of AI Talent in the UAE
The flow of AI talent to the UAE is not solely due to the advanced technological infrastructure but also due to the country's clear commitment to innovation, research, and scientific development. Numerous universities and research institutions in the country offer specialized courses in AI and related fields, promoting the training of new-generation talent.
Additionally, the UAE organizes various AI competitions and hackathons, encouraging young people's participation and contributing to developing creative thinking and innovative solutions. Such events further attract talent to the country and reinforce the UAE's position on the global AI map.
Summary: UAE, The Future AI Hub
Gitex Global 2024 is further proof of the UAE's leadership in innovation and AI technology. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, clearly indicated that the country's goal is to become a global AI center, with all conditions in place for the UAE to assume a leading role in this field. The influx of AI talent to the UAE clearly shows that the country will be a significant player in AI technology development and application in the long term, while strengthening its position in the global tech race.
