The United Arab Emirates (UAE) aims to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) was one of the most discussed topics at the Gitex 2025 conference in Dubai.
In government agencies and corporate boardrooms, AI is now a key part of strategy, operations and government services. Microsoft says it plays a central role in this journeyhelping organizations move from experimenting with AI to achieving real, measurable results.
“AI has been experimenting for the last three years,” says Rima Seeman, director of AI and enterprise solutions at Microsoft. “We are now entering what I call the era of advanced AI companies with organizations that use AI and are led by people.”
Microsoft is taking a three-pronged approach to organizations: providing AI assistants for repetitive tasks; creation of AI agents to improve work processes; and the use of AI strategists who support leaders in decision making.
“These agents are more than just demos; they help employees and managers act on information in real time, which is critical for scale-up adoption,” Seaman adds.
Support for CIOs and artificial intelligence development
Adopting artificial intelligence at scale is more than just technology. It requires infrastructure, skills and management: “First, you need a modern cloud environment,” says Seaman.
Microsoft has invested heavily in data centers across the UAE.giving organizations the scale needed for AI workloads while ensuring data persistence and compliance.
Talent development is equally important. “Last year alone we trained 100,000 government employees, and our goal is one million students by 2027,” she says.
These programs equip CIOs, IT leaders and employees with the knowledge needed to implement AI responsibly and effectively. Through partnerships with initiatives such as the G42 Center for Responsible AI in Abu Dhabi, Microsoft is committed to ensuring AI systems are safe, secure and compliant.
“It's about mutual accountability. Our frameworks are open so organizations can implement AI safely and confidently,” says Seeman.
National AI Vision
The UAE has taken a unique approach to AI governance. “The UAE appointed its first minister for AI, and now every ministry has chief AI officers and advisors included in operational workflows,” explains Seeman.
“Other countries are watching because the UAE is not waiting for AI to develop around them, it is building infrastructure, regulation and talent at the same time.”
This strategy gets results. Microsoft partners with government agencies and enterprises to make AI practical and effective.
“WITH [the Department of Government Enablement in Abu Dhabi]For example, we have enhanced citizen engagement with AI-powered services. Rakbank has automated KYC (know your customer) processes to improve financial workflows..
Microsoft's work in the UAE goes beyond technology delivery. The company collaborates with local talent, enterprises and global technology partners to create a comprehensive artificial intelligence ecosystem.
“It’s about creating a hub of talent, attracting local and international experts and exporting successful use cases around the world,” she says. The company also works closely with CIOs in the region to help integrate AI into their organizations' operations and strategic plans.
“By investing in people and infrastructure, the UAE is creating an environment in which AI can thrive. I am honored to be part of this journey. We are helping organizations move from experimentation to impact, from strategy to action, and from isolated solutions to a national AI ecosystem that delivers both economic and social value.”
