How is Abu Dhabi Positioning itself as a Global AI Leader in 2025?

Abu Dhabi has long been known for its architectural marvels; however, the country is changing its strategy and is aiming to be recognized across the globe for its technological advancements. Reducing its reliance on oil and energy, the UAE is heavily investing in AI and AI skills to improve its economy. Business leaders are actively adopting AI for their operations and according to PwC, AI is expected to contribute up to 14% of their GDP by 2030.

There is an absolute need for the UAE to shift their economy and AI is one of the most lucrative alternatives to that. Therefore, Abu Dhabi has started heavily investing in this emerging technology and refining its policies to itself emerge as a global AI leader.

If anyone wants to make a career in AI in UAE, then organizations here are looking for some highly skilled business leaders from all over the world with AI leadership certifications to validate their experience and knowledge in AI. Undoubtedly, the country offers excellent growth opportunities.

In this article, let us understand various steps the UAE is taking towards becoming a global AI leader and how you can take advantage of this opportunity to boost your AI career at all levels.

Investing Strategically in AI Infrastructure

The biggest leap towards becoming a global AI leader is a significant strategic investment in AI infrastructure by the UAE. The country is committed to creating an advanced infrastructure and solid foundation for AI research and development. It is building high-quality data centers and advanced computers to carry out complex computations and other processes required to build efficient AI systems.

G42 is an Abu Dhabi-based technology company that is contributing towards this mission, and it is looking to double its data center capacity and AI-ready facilities. Another big player in UAE’s ‘Saudi Vision 2030’ is USAII®. The United States Artificial Intelligence Institute (USAII®) recently participated in the ‘First Forum of Innovation Pioneers’ organized by Renad Al-Majd (RMG). The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aims to transform their culture using AI to reshape their industries, and USAII® is committed to bridging the AI skills gap by providing the best AI certifications for Leaders and executives to turn their vision into reality.

As per PwC, the contribution of AI towards GDP is particularly higher in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. 

Looking at these facts and stats, we can infer how rapidly the UAE is moving towards becoming a global AI leader.

Now, the career opportunities in AI are also huge in the country. So, check out how you can maximize your chances to become a business leader equipped with the latest AI skills.

Best AI Leadership Certifications in 2025

UAE is looking for leaders who can leverage AI and transform businesses. The demand is soaring and there is a huge gap between the demand and availability of such a talented workforce. Enroll in the following AI leadership certifications to demonstrate your mettle:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Managers and Leaders – Strategies and Implementation: Atton Institute

This is a 5-day AI training program designed for senior managers and leaders to equip them with essential AI skills and knowledge to successfully strategize and implement AI to enhance their business operations using the latest AI technologies.

The course is conducted in batches in Dubai with English as the language of instruction. The course is offered in 3 modes – online, public, and in-house and the program fee depends upon the mode of learning. Professionals get a certificate of completion after completing the course validating their skills and expertise.

2. Certified AI Transformation Leader (CAITL™): USAII®

This AI leadership certification program has been designed for senior executives and decision-makers including CXOs, directors, VPs, and other important decision-makers who want to master the necessary AI skills needed to plan, strategize, and execute AI integration within various business functions.

Features of CAITL™

• Online selfpaced program with a duration of 8-14 weeks
• Consists of 2 live master classes by the industry leaders and AI experts Dr. Milton Mattox, Dr. Cindy Gordon, and Malay A Upadhyay
• Offers study materials including eBooks, lecture videos, and use cases
• Earn a digital sharable badge

The AI certification for C-Level is awarded after a Unique Assessment Theory (exam is optional). USAII’s Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist (CAIS™) is another popular program among senior AI professionals and AI leaders that you can consider.

3. Post Graduate Program in Artificial Intelligence for Leaders: The University of Texas at Austin

This is a 4 months unique online mentorship program for senior business leaders and AI professionals. The course aims to build a strong foundation in AI for business covering the essentials of machine learning, neural networks, deep learning, etc.

The program consists of 50+ hours of live sessions with industry experts and consists of 5 projects, 1 capstone project, with 8+ hands-on exercises for practical learning.

The program takes a no-code approach, thus empowering decision-makers to make informed decisions using an intuitive interface for data analysis or predictions without explicit programming.

Other Popular AI certifications to learn AI

Not just AI leaders, the demand for entry-level and mid-level AI professionals is also increasing. So, anyone looking to make a career in AI in UAE has plenty of opportunities to grab. Here are some other popular AI certifications to help you gain the latest industry-relevant AI skills.

• The Artificial Intelligence Program, UAE in Collaboration with the University of Birmingham
• AI Artificial Intelligence Course in Dubai: Zabeel International Institute of Management and Technology
• Certificate in Fundamentals of AI by LEORON Institute

These courses will help you master the essential concepts to carry out various AI jobs efficiently.

Conclusion

UAE is all set to join the global leaders in AI. The opportunities in this field are huge as the country is now focusing on expanding its AI infrastructure, minimizing the AI skill gap, and shifting its economy to technology from real estate and oil and energy. For those looking to succeed in their AI career, the country is highly welcoming, provided you have the necessary skills and knowledge to convert Vision 2030 into reality. So, register for top AI certifications, gain relevant skills, and prove your mettle now.