UAE Opens Master's Programme in AI Governance for Government Leaders
The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government launched a postgraduate degree focused on AI governance and innovation management on Monday, targeting public sector officials who will oversee artificial intelligence adoption across government operations.
The Master in Innovation Management and AI Governance combines academic study with hands-on experience over 180 credits. Students can complete the programme full-time in 18 months or part-time over two years through a mix of weekend classes and online learning.
The curriculum covers innovation management, AI policy, public administration, and strategic leadership. It includes 120 credits of taught courses and a 60-credit dissertation. International field visits to technology hubs and international organisations are part of the programme structure.
Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, said governments face pressure to develop leaders capable of managing AI's impact on public sector operations. "Artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the public sector, and governments will need qualified, agile leaders capable of navigating complex and unprecedented transformations," he said.
The launch reflects the UAE's broader AI strategy. The country aims to move 50 per cent of government sectors, services, and operations to agentic AI systems under the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.
Prof. Yousif El-Ghalayini, Acting Dean of Academic Affairs at MBRSG, said the programme addresses a gap in workforce readiness. Adopting technology alone is insufficient-public sector organisations need staff trained to manage AI-driven change.
The programme includes sessions on AI policy frameworks and case studies from sectors including healthcare, defence, and government services. Faculty members and government innovation leaders led discussions on why government organisations need staff trained in innovation leadership.
Government professionals seeking deeper knowledge of AI policy and governance may find relevant resources in AI learning paths designed for policy makers.
The initiative reflects a regional trend. Middle Eastern governments are increasingly prioritising AI governance, digital policy, and leadership development as AI adoption moves from pilot projects into core government operations.
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