ABU DHABI: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, recently met with Microsoft Vice Chairman and President, Brad Smith, during the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2024. This meeting centered on expanding collaboration in advanced technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to foster sustainable development and digital innovation.

The discussions highlighted Microsoft’s pivotal role in AI and its technology leadership. Sheikh Hamdan acknowledged Microsoft’s efforts in advancing AI and emphasized the potential for new collaborations in sectors vital to the UAE’s economy. Attending the meeting was Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications.

During the meeting, Brad Smith announced Microsoft’s initiative to train one million UAE residents in essential AI skills by 2027, part of Microsoft’s dedication to bridging the global AI knowledge gap. This programme complements Microsoft’s ongoing efforts with UAE authorities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah to skill 100,000 government employees in the latest AI techniques. The comprehensive AI training initiative targets various skill levels, aiming to build an AI-ready workforce capable of leveraging digital tools for productivity and economic growth.

Microsoft’s Vice Chairman Brad Smith emphasised the importance of understanding AI, stating, “To benefit from AI, people need to learn to use AI.” He added that Microsoft is committed to empowering UAE citizens to apply AI in both work and everyday contexts, enhancing productivity and innovation.

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Minister Al Olama noted Microsoft’s alignment with the UAE’s vision to become a global AI hub. He remarked on the value of partnering with leading technology firms to unlock new opportunities and ensure that AI skills become accessible and relevant across UAE sectors. Microsoft plans to collaborate widely across public and private institutions to deliver skilling resources for foundational and practical AI applications.