Abu Dhabi launches AiNative programme to train 20,000 government employees in AI by 2026

This initiative positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in public-sector AI transformation, potentially influencing workforce dynamics across the UAE.

• On October 7, 2026, Abu Dhabi launched the AiNative programme to train 20,000 government employees in AI.
• The initiative is part of a Dh13 billion Digital Strategy aimed at creating the world's first fully AI-native government by 2027.
• Key partners include OpenAI, Microsoft, and MBZUAI, focusing on foundational AI skills and responsible usage.

• Abu Dhabi's initiative aligns with the UAE's national AI strategy, which emphasizes infrastructure and automation.
• Previous training efforts have already reached over 100 operational AI applications across various government entities.
• The programme will utilize the Tomouh app for public access, expanding AI education beyond government employees.

The AiNative programme is a strategic move by Abu Dhabi to enhance the capabilities of its government workforce in artificial intelligence. With a target of training 20,000 employees by the end of 2026, the initiative is part of a broader Dh13 billion Digital Strategy aimed at establishing a fully AI-native government by 2027. This ambitious plan includes deploying over 200 AI solutions and developing a sovereign cloud infrastructure.

The programme was launched at the AI Everything Abu Dhabi event, showcasing a partnership with leading tech firms like OpenAI and Microsoft, as well as the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). The training will cover essential tools such as ChatGPT, Codex, and Microsoft 365 Copilot, with specialized certifications planned for coding and data management. This foundational training is crucial as it prepares employees for a future where AI will play a central role in government operations.

The initial pilot phase is already underway, with plans to scale the training to 20,000–23,000 employees by early 2027. The curriculum emphasizes responsible AI use, data governance, and human oversight, ensuring that employees are not just users of AI but also understand its implications and ethical considerations. The introduction of Chief Data and AI Officer roles within government entities further supports this initiative, promoting a culture of data-driven decision-making.

Moreover, the programme is designed to be inclusive, with future public access through the Tomouh app, which will allow citizens to engage with AI tools for personal finance, job searching, and small business operations. This democratization of AI knowledge is expected to enhance the overall digital literacy of the population, aligning with the UAE's vision for a tech-savvy society.

As Abu Dhabi positions itself as a leader in AI integration, the implications extend beyond the emirate. The initiative could foster greater collaboration across the UAE, potentially benefiting residents in Dubai and other emirates through shared platforms and resources. The focus on upskilling government employees not only enhances their job performance but also sets a precedent for private sector engagement in AI training, creating a ripple effect throughout the economy.

• Government employees: Direct beneficiaries of the training, enhancing their skills and job security.
• Tech companies: Partners like Microsoft and OpenAI may see increased demand for their AI solutions and services.
• UAE residents: Indirectly benefit from improved government services and potential job opportunities in AI-related fields.

• Expansion of the Tomouh app: Its rollout will indicate how quickly AI education can reach the public and its effectiveness in enhancing digital literacy.
• Partnership developments: Watch for new collaborations between government entities and tech firms that could lead to innovative AI solutions.
• Impact assessments: Future evaluations of the programme's effectiveness in improving government efficiency and employee satisfaction will be crucial.