Dubai continues to push forward in its vision to become a global technology powerhouse. This week, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, approved a series of new artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives designed to fast-track the city’s transformation into a leading AI-driven economy.
The announcement was made during the 2025 meeting of the Higher Committee for Future Technology Development and the Digital Economy. Three major projects took the spotlight: the AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform, the Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce, and the Unicorn 30 Programme. Each project carries a specific goal—together, they aim to enhance innovation, strengthen the economy, and attract global talent.
The AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform
The new platform will support Dubai’s government entities in integrating AI into daily operations. It provides a secure, unified environment that brings together smart tools, cloud systems, and cybersecurity frameworks. This setup helps agencies create AI-powered services faster, with better efficiency and lower costs.
The goal is simple: make government work smarter. The platform will speed up the adoption of AI, improve performance, and reduce duplication of efforts. It also ensures that public data remains safe and reliable—an essential step in building public trust in digital governance.
The Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce
Another major move is the launch of the AI Acceleration Taskforce, designed to bring government entities together under a shared vision for AI adoption. The taskforce will work closely with Chief AI Officers from 27 departments to identify challenges and create unified strategies.
The team will help streamline decisions, drive faster implementation, and measure the real-world impact of AI technologies across various industries. This collaborative model ensures Dubai stays agile while scaling AI projects that benefit both businesses and citizens.
The Unicorn 30 Programme
To fuel entrepreneurship, Sheikh Hamdan also approved the Unicorn 30 Programme—an ambitious plan by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. The programme’s mission is to turn 30 emerging startups into billion-dollar companies.
The initiative brings together over 80 local and international organizations focused on startup growth and innovation. It covers 10 key areas, including funding, governance, and regulation, to build a strong foundation for scalable businesses.
Under Dubai Founders HQ, the Unicorn 30 Programme will help founders access mentorship, investors, and partnerships. This ecosystem approach supports new ventures and enhances Dubai’s standing as a top destination for entrepreneurs and investors seeking company formation in Dubai.
Dubai’s Long-Term Vision
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s goal to become the most future-ready city—one that adopts technology not just quickly, but meaningfully. These AI projects align with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which targets sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
The Higher Committee also discussed upcoming projects like Gitex Global 2026, which will now take place at Expo City Dubai. This move reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to create a greener, more advanced tech environment.
Dubai’s AI journey is not limited to public institutions. It extends to private enterprises, investors, and startups that contribute to its innovation ecosystem. The government’s support for AI-driven development makes the city an attractive choice for global entrepreneurs planning company formation in Dubai.
Conclusion
From smart government systems to billion-dollar startups, Dubai’s new AI initiatives are shaping the city’s next chapter. The AI Platform, Taskforce, and Unicorn 30 Programme aren’t just about adopting technology—they’re about creating opportunities, driving innovation, and building an economy ready for the future.
With the Crown Prince’s leadership and a clear roadmap in place, Dubai continues to move closer to becoming the world’s smartest, fastest, and most connected city.
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