UAE Debuts Region's First CAIO Executive Program for Responsible, Scalable AI Leadership

The AI Academy Launches Region's First Executive Program for Chief AI Officer

Dubai, September 11, 2025 - The AI Academy has opened early applications for its Executive Program for Chief AI Officer (CAIO), the first program of its kind in the region built for senior leaders who need to drive responsible, scalable AI transformation.

Unveiled at Machines Can See 2025 in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the program targets a clear market need: 69% of organizations in the Middle East plan to increase AI investment. In partnership with the Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) and Polynome AI Academy, the initiative supports the UAE's ambition to grow an AI economy projected to add over US$96 billion to GDP by 2031.

What Leaders Will Gain

• Ten advanced modules over two weeks, covering AI systems architecture, enterprise deployment, governance frameworks, ethics, and public policy.
• Practical playbooks to lead cross-functional AI strategies across business units and functions.
• Integration of NVIDIA expertise and technology within select program components to accelerate real-world deployment.
• Optional five-day international module in Europe or the United States to connect with leading innovation ecosystems.
• Exclusive access to enterprise-grade AI infrastructure and implementation insights through Polynome Group.

Faculty Depth: Global Expertise, Local Relevance

The instructor bench combines professors and researchers from Oxford University, ETH Zurich, Khalifa University, and Carnegie Mellon University with senior leaders from NVIDIA, the UAE Cybersecurity Council, X, G42, NASA JPL, Mubadala, AMD, e&, HCLTech, and other top organizations.

This mix ensures both strategic foresight and execution guidance-what executives need to move from pilots to production at scale.

Why It Matters Now

With Chief AI Officers already appointed across Federal and Dubai government entities, the CAIO role is moving from optional to essential. The program supports national priorities including the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, reinforcing the country's leadership in accountable AI adoption and governance.

Learn more about the national strategy here: UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.

What Leaders Are Saying

"Visionary and strategic leadership is critical to unlocking the full potential of AI in a responsible way that meets the needs of businesses and society alike," said Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ADSM. "This program equips leaders with the strategic foresight, ethical foundation, and practical skills required to leverage the exciting opportunities AI creates."

"What makes this program unique is that it was designed by leaders who have implemented AI at scale," added Alexander Khanin, Founder of Polynome Group. "Participants will leave with execution-ready strategies, direct access to enterprise tools, and membership in a powerful peer network of global AI leaders."

Who Should Apply

• C-suite leaders: CAIOs, CTOs, CIOs, CISOs
• Public sector advisors and innovation leads
• Senior strategy, transformation, and digital executives
• AI sponsors across private and government sectors

Program Dates and Admissions

• Format: Intensive two-week program
• Start date: 16 November 2025
• Application deadline: 15 October 2025

Apply or learn more: polynome.ai/caio

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