How Digital Innovation Is Changing Government In The UAE And GCC
Digital innovation is changing how governments work across the UAE and other Gulf countries. Artificial intelligence (AI) is now a key part of governance, helping governments improve services, make faster decisions, and keep citizens satisfied.
The UAE has placed AI at the center of government operations. AI is now used in more than 100 government services, helping reduce response times by up to 90% in some departments. This has led to record-high levels of citizen satisfaction. UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohamed Al Gergawi highlighted these achievements at the World Governments Summit 2026, showing how AI is reshaping the relationship between government and citizens.
Other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are also moving quickly. Saudi Arabia is building national AI systems and data platforms under Vision 2030, led by the Saudi Data & AI Authority. The goal is to make AI a strong driver of economic growth. Qatar is using predictive analytics and developing Arabic-focused AI models through long-term global partnerships. Bahrain has introduced a national AI policy that follows regional ethical guidelines.
Kuwait and Oman are also developing national AI strategies as part of wider digital transformation plans. These efforts focus on smart infrastructure, better public services, and responsible use of AI. Across the region, GCC countries are working together to align policies and ensure AI is used safely, ethically, and independently.
At a regional level, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said AI and the digital economy are becoming major growth engines for the Gulf. Speaking at the 5th General Assembly of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) in Kuwait, he said AI could add around $150 billion to GCC economies, with yearly contributions expected to reach $260 billion by 2030.
He explained that progress is driven by strong digital infrastructure, supportive policies, and international partnerships. Cooperation with the DCO plays a key role, including work on ICT regulations, digital skills training, and regional programs such as women’s empowerment in technology and e-waste management. These efforts help ensure digital growth is inclusive, sustainable, and aligned across borders.
The UAE continues to lead regional efforts by investing heavily in AI. Under its National AI Strategy and Digital Economy Strategy, the country aims to double the technology sector’s share of non-oil GDP and become a global AI hub by 2031.
AI-powered platforms like UAE Pass now serve over 11 million users, allowing secure access to government services. Abu Dhabi has launched a $3.5 billion sovereign cloud and AI infrastructure program to automate services and improve digital governance. The emirate aims to become the world’s first fully AI-driven government by 2027, with more than 200 AI solutions in use.
Other GCC countries are following similar paths. Saudi Arabia is investing in AI companies and data infrastructure through SDAIA. Qatar has signed a five-year agreement with Scale AI and launched a $20 billion AI infrastructure project. Bahrain is building an AI Academy to train 50,000 citizens by 2030. Oman’s Vision 2040 promotes ethical AI use, while Kuwait’s Vision 2035 focuses on smart infrastructure.
In the UAE, AI has been integrated into healthcare, transport, education, energy, and logistics. The government aims to grow the digital economy’s share of non-oil GDP to 20% by 2031. Digital platforms have saved billions of dirhams and made services faster and easier for citizens.
Legal systems are also improving. New digital services now automate cross-border judicial processes, cutting paperwork and delays.
Beyond technology, the UAE sees AI as a way to improve daily life. Faster services, smarter cities, and skilled local talent are the real measures of success. Issam Kazim of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing said the UAE’s focus on innovation, partnerships, and investment is key to long-term growth, helping turn vision into real impact for society and the economy.
Published: 9th February 2026
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