Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been ranked among the top 20 nations globally for AI talent density, according to the Tortoise Global AI Index 2024. The index assesses countries based on investment, innovation, and implementation of AI. The UAE led the Middle East region, followed by Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This ranking highlights the growing focus and investment in AI talent development within the Gulf region, positioning the countries as emerging AI hubs.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) is hosting an AI seminar by Kajetan Schweighofer on October 28, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM GST. TII describes itself as a global research center focused on discovery science and transformative technologies. The seminar series is part of TII's efforts to share its developments and research. Why it matters: Such seminars contribute to the growth of the AI ecosystem in the UAE by facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration.
The AI Economy Institute and Microsoft have released a report, "Global AI Adoption in 2025", examining the projected state of AI adoption across different sectors. The report uses survey data and economic modeling to forecast AI's impact on productivity and employment. It identifies key barriers to adoption and provides recommendations for policymakers and business leaders. Why it matters: The report offers insights into the future trajectory of AI in the global economy, including the Middle East, helping stakeholders prepare for and capitalize on AI-driven transformation.
Global technology leaders convened at the World Governments Summit 2026 to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. Discussions centered on AI ethics, governance, and its potential impact on various sectors. The summit aimed to foster international collaboration in shaping the trajectory of AI development and deployment. Why it matters: The World Governments Summit is an important forum for discussing AI policy in the region, indicating the UAE's continued focus on being a leader in AI governance.
H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has been named one of TIME's 100 most influential people in AI. Al Bannai's leadership at ATRC has driven AI advancements through the Falcon LLM series developed by TII and the launch of AI71, which delivers AI solutions across sectors like medicine and education. This recognition reflects the UAE’s commitment to using AI for global good. Why it matters: The award highlights the UAE's growing prominence and strategic vision in shaping the global AI landscape, particularly through open-source initiatives.
Bitget published a guide to AI jobs and careers in Dubai for 2026, outlining roles like AI developer, data scientist, and machine learning engineer. The guide provides salary ranges and required skills for each position. It also highlights the growth of AI in Dubai and the increasing demand for AI professionals. Why it matters: This reflects Dubai's ambition to become a hub for AI and attract global talent in the field.