“The surge in applications reflects a new generation of Emirati professionals ready to lead the UAE’s AI-driven future.” – UAE National Experts Program
UAE National Experts: Strong response highlights growing demand for AI leadership across the UAE
The UAE’s National Experts Program (NEP) has received more than 1,000 applications for its newly launched Artificial Intelligence track, reflecting a strong surge in interest among Emirati professionals eager to contribute to the country’s rapidly evolving AI ecosystem.
The dedicated AI track, known as NEP-AI, is designed to build a new generation of national leaders capable of driving artificial intelligence initiatives across key sectors of the economy. The overwhelming response underscores the increasing importance of AI as a strategic priority for the UAE and its ambition to position itself among the world’s leading AI-driven nations.
The programme, launched under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, builds on the success of the National Experts Program since its inception in 2019. It is closely aligned with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, which aims to accelerate innovation, enhance government performance, and strengthen the country’s global competitiveness in emerging technologies.
Officials noted that the high number of applications reflects not only the growing talent pool within the UAE but also a strong commitment among Emirati professionals to play a meaningful role in shaping the country’s digital future. The AI track is tailored to mid- and senior-level professionals with at least 5 years of experience, particularly those working in data science, digital transformation, and innovation.
Participants selected for the programme will undergo an intensive development journey that combines academic learning, practical experience, and mentorship from global experts. The curriculum is structured to ensure that candidates move beyond theoretical understanding and focus on delivering real-world AI solutions with measurable impact across sectors.
The UAE National Experts -AI track spans 25 priority sectors and is built around six specialised areas, including AI infrastructure, applications, product development, and national AI capabilities. This comprehensive approach ensures that participants gain both technical expertise and leadership skills required to implement AI-driven transformation initiatives at scale.
A key component of the programme is the development of a capstone project, in which each participant designs and implements an AI initiative aligned with their organisation or sector. These projects are intended to address real institutional and national challenges, reinforcing the programme’s focus on practical outcomes and long-term value creation.
Programme leaders emphasised that the initiative is not only about developing technical capabilities but also about fostering responsible AI practices. The curriculum places strong emphasis on governance, ethics, data readiness, and sustainable deployment, ensuring that AI adoption aligns with national priorities and global standards.
The first cohort of the NEP-AI track is scheduled to begin in May 2026, bringing together a select group of professionals who will play a pivotal role in advancing the UAE National Experts AI agenda. Participants will also benefit from exposure to international institutions, industry leaders, and global innovation ecosystems, further enhancing their expertise and networks.
The strong response to the programme signals a broader shift in the UAE’s workforce, where professionals are increasingly seeking to upskill in advanced technologies and contribute to national transformation efforts. It also highlights the government’s success in creating structured platforms that bridge the gap between policy ambitions and real-world implementation.
As the UAE continues to invest in artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of its future economy, initiatives such as the UAE National Experts Program are expected to play a critical role in building a highly skilled, future-ready workforce capable of leading innovation across both the public and private sectors.
