Emirates Development Bank (EDB), a key financial driver of economic development and industrial progress in the UAE, has announced the launch of its internal AI Wave program, designed to boost AI literacy and adoption throughout the organization.

The initiative aligns with the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, which seeks to position the country as a global leader in AI innovation and improve government efficiency through advanced AI integration in banking services. This comprehensive educational and awareness program aims to elevate employees’ knowledge of AI technologies and best international practices across all bank departments.

Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, said, “As the UAE’s development bank, we are at the forefront of enabling the nation’s economic transformation. Our role in supporting the UAE’s ambition to become a global AI leader is not just about adopting technology. It’s about strategically embedding AI into our operations to drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth.” 

“We envision a future where AI-driven insights and solutions underpin our strategic decision-making, optimize our service delivery, and ultimately contribute to a more prosperous, resilient, and technologically advanced national economy,” he added.

The program’s first session was led by Irina Petrakova-Otto, Microsoft’s Chief Technology Officer of Private Capital and AI. She shared insights on AI applications with EDB’s executive management, emphasizing AI’s transformative potential in the banking sector and exploring its various applications across different departments.

The second session, led by Martin Hayward, a partner at the global law firm Pinsent Masons, focused on the practical aspects of AI implementation. Topics included data management, model development, and ethical considerations, equipping EDB staff with the knowledge and tools to leverage AI in their roles effectively.

The AI Wave program will continue with a series of interactive workshops, seminars, and hands-on training sessions.

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