UAE and Lebanon launch initiative to train 1 million people in AI

The UAE and Lebanon have launched a new initiative to equip one million Lebanese people with practical artificial intelligence skills, as the two countries deepen cooperation in technology, knowledge exchange, and digital transformation.

The “One Million Lebanese AI Experts” initiative was announced during a meeting between H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Lebanese Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Launched under the Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP) in cooperation with the Lebanese government, the initiative will provide participants with fundamental and practical skills in generative AI and prompt engineering.

The program is designed to help people learn how to formulate prompts and interact more effectively with AI tools, with the broader goal of improving productivity, supporting new ways of working, and encouraging the development of innovative solutions.

The initiative will be open to people across different age groups, professional backgrounds, and roles, as the two governments seek to broaden access to AI skills and strengthen Lebanon’s readiness for digital transformation.

Beyond individual skills development, the program forms part of the UAE’s wider GEEP efforts to share government expertise and develop partnerships that strengthen institutional and human capabilities in partner countries.

The announcement comes as governments across the region increasingly focus on developing AI-ready workforces and integrating emerging technologies into public services and everyday work.

During their meeting, Sheikh Abdullah and Salam also discussed UAE-Lebanon relations and opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation across several sectors. They exchanged views on issues on the UN General Assembly agenda and regional developments of mutual interest.

Sheikh Abdullah reiterated the UAE’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Lebanon and supporting efforts to advance security, stability, development, and prosperity in the country.

The AI initiative adds a technology and skills component to that relationship, focusing on building practical capabilities that could help individuals and institutions make greater use of generative AI.