The UAE has commenced its largest 'Make it in the Emirates Forum' to date, featuring an AI showcase and emphasizing a strong national industrial push. The event aims to highlight the country's commitment to industrial growth and technological advancement across various sectors. This forum serves as a critical platform for strategic discussions on integrating advanced technologies like AI into the UAE's industrial landscape. Why it matters: This event signals the UAE's high-level strategic commitment to leveraging AI for industrial diversification and enhancing its manufacturing capabilities as a core component of its economic vision.
The UAE's largest-ever 'Make it in the Emirates' forum has commenced, featuring a dedicated AI showcase and a significant push towards industrial development. This national initiative aims to promote local manufacturing and attract investments in critical sectors. The event brings together government officials, industry leaders, and technology innovators to foster economic growth and technological advancement within the Emirates. Why it matters: This forum signals a strategic national effort to integrate AI into industrial processes and boost the UAE's manufacturing capabilities, aligning with its economic diversification goals.
The ninth edition of the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR) 2026 is set to launch next week in Abu Dhabi. This biennial event typically showcases innovations in national security, policing, and disaster management technologies. It provides a platform for government entities, industry professionals, and technology providers to present solutions and foster collaborations. Why it matters: The launch of this major security exhibition underlines the UAE's continuous focus on enhancing its national security infrastructure and adopting advanced technologies, which often include AI applications in surveillance, threat detection, and emergency response.
The UAE National Experts Programme has received over 1,000 applications for its Artificial Intelligence (AI) track, highlighting a strong national interest in developing expertise in the field. This program aims to cultivate specialized talent across key sectors in the UAE. The high volume of applicants reflects the country's strategic focus on building a skilled local workforce capable of driving AI innovation and implementation. Why it matters: This initiative is crucial for strengthening the UAE's human capital in AI, aligning with its national agenda to become a global leader in technology and diversify its economy.
Twelve Saudi startups pitched at the 9/10ths Startup Accelerator showcase in Riyadh, presenting diverse business concepts. Half of the finalist teams were led by Saudi female entrepreneurs. Fixtag, Innoras, Dhad, and Magadeer received grant funding from a panel of judges representing various investment firms. Why it matters: The 9/10ths program demonstrates growing investment and support for entrepreneurship and innovation across Saudi Arabia, with a focus on female leadership and high-potential startups.
The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) showcased its National Data Center Observatory at the Digital Readiness Retreat 2026. During the event, MoEI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 42 Abu Dhabi, a prominent coding school. This initiative aims to enhance the UAE's digital infrastructure and readiness capabilities. Why it matters: This development signifies the UAE government's commitment to strengthening its digital economy and fostering talent through strategic partnerships.