Contrary to fears that AI will take away jobs from humans, costs reduced due to automation will allow firms to increase demand and growth, resulting in more employment. An Accenture study shows that almost 65% of firms in the Middle East will train their workforce for an AI-powered future. The region is preparing local talent for this at institutions such as the world’s first university dedicated to AI in Abu Dhabi.

The Mohammed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi joined the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology for an AI training program. The four-day initiative will provide skills and knowledge about the application of AI industries to prepare the nation for the fourth industrial revolution. Decision-makers are trained in AI adoption strategies for industries to lead their firms towards swift digital transformation.

Now in its second year, the program increases awareness about AI among leaders and increases businesses’ regional and international competitiveness. The initiative also aligns with the UAE’s strategy to become the world leader in AI by 2031. It will also increase productivity by 30% and contribute more than $6 billion to the UAE’s economy in the next decade.

Also, read how AI university in Abu Dhabi joins forces with IBM to boost AI research here.

Mohammed Al-Qasim, Director of Science and Technology Adoption and Development at the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, said, “part of our mission is to help national industrial companies unlock the full potential of 4IR solutions by bringing together the public, private, and academic sectors.” Leaders from different sectors aiming to employ AI for product development, service delivery, and decision-making signed up for the training program.

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