Rima Semaan, Data & AI Lead at Microsoft UAE, announced that Microsoft and its partners are set to infuse $74.4 billion into the UAE’s economy, generating over 152,500 new jobs. "Infrastructure is crucial. We are intensifying our focus on cloud infrastructure and the most advanced AI technologies to ensure the UAE stays ahead in AI innovation," Rima Semaan told Khaleej Times during Gitex Global.
A significant milestone is the establishment of Microsoft’s Engineering Development Center in Abu Dhabi, the first of its kind in the region. Dedicated to AI and cybersecurity, this center underscores Microsoft’s dedication to pioneering technologies in the UAE, reinforcing the nation’s status as a global AI leader. As AI reshapes industries worldwide, the UAE has positioned itself as a trailblazer in leveraging its transformative power.
In an interview with Microsoft UAE, the company discussed the next phase of Artificial Intelligence—dubbed ‘Season Two’ of AI—where generative capabilities move beyond boosting productivity to revolutionizing business processes, government services, and citizen welfare. With Microsoft leading this transformation, the UAE is establishing itself as a global AI powerhouse.
"AI is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a transformative force reshaping every industry, organization, and country," Rima said. "While Season One centered on deploying chatbots and copilots to assist in tasks, Season Two will integrate AI into the core of business processes on a large scale, making systems smarter and more efficient." This shift heralds a new era for businesses and governments, where AI not only assists but redefines operations. Organizations can now harness AI to streamline workflows, optimize decision-making, and achieve both cost savings and growth.
Leading Microsoft’s initiatives in the UAE is “Sawa,” an innovative AI solution aimed at enhancing citizen welfare and happiness. Launched at a major tech event, Sawa—meaning “together” in Arabic—serves as a digital companion for UAE residents, focusing on health, well-being, and community service. "Sawa is more than a transactional tool—it’s a personal co-pilot for every citizen, addressing everything from healthcare needs to community engagement," Rima explained. "Imagine spotting a broken bench in a park. With Sawa, a simple photo can initiate an AI-powered process that opens a repair ticket with the relevant authorities, all while contributing to the community’s happiness index."
Central to Microsoft’s AI vision in the UAE is its groundbreaking AI skilling initiative, launched in partnership with the governments of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. The program aims to train 100,000 employees across government sectors and businesses, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven future. "Whether you’re a developer, manager, or general employee, this initiative ensures you’ll have the expertise to embrace AI transformation. The UAE is committed to becoming a global AI leader, and skilling its workforce is at the heart of that mission," Rima added.
A key component of this initiative is the AI Skills Navigator, a dynamic learning platform that offers personalized learning paths from over 200 resources, including Microsoft Learn, LinkedIn, and GitHub. By empowering workers to tailor their training to specific roles and ambitions, Microsoft and the UAE are building an AI-enabled workforce ready to lead the future.
With Microsoft and the UAE at the forefront, AI is no longer a distant promise—it’s an imminent reality that will redefine how nations and organizations operate. As the UAE advances toward its AI-driven Vision 2030, the fusion of technology and societal progress is setting a global standard. "We’re integrating AI into every aspect of life—from boosting productivity to transforming public services and even contributing to the happiness and well-being of citizens. The UAE is setting the stage for an AI-driven future, and we’re proud to be part of that journey," Rima concluded.
As AI continues to evolve, the partnership between Microsoft and the UAE is poised to usher in an era of unparalleled innovation, setting new benchmarks for how technology can shape the future of nations. With ambitious goals, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a commitment to citizen welfare, the UAE is rapidly emerging as a global AI hub—leading the world into the next chapter of technological evolution.
