UAE Plans to Run Half Its Government on AI by 2028
The United Arab Emirates announced a plan to operate 50 percent of its government services through autonomous artificial intelligence by 2028, making it the first country to govern at this scale using AI systems.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, said the shift will move AI from a support tool to an active partner in government operations. "AI is no longer a tool. It analyses, decides, executes and improves in real time," he said.
What Changes for Government Workers
The initiative uses AI Agents & Automation - systems that execute tasks and manage processes with minimal human intervention. Unlike conventional AI tools that assist staff, these agents will actively deliver services, make decisions, and respond to requests in real time.
For residents, the change simplifies interactions. Instead of navigating complex systems, people request outcomes and the AI handles the work behind the scenes.
Government staff will face new expectations. Ministers, directors-general, and heads of federal entities will be assessed over the next two years based on their ability to implement new standards and adopt AI tools.
How the Rollout Works
Implementation will be overseen by Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with Cabinet Affairs Minister Mohammad Al Gergawi leading a task force to monitor execution. The project will roll out in phases across ministries and federal entities, with continuous performance assessments guiding wider adoption.
The UAE aims to reduce operational costs, boost productivity, and deliver faster services by redesigning government policies and processes around AI capabilities.
Building on Existing Digital Infrastructure
This announcement builds on two decades of digital transformation. In 2010, the UAE transitioned to e-government services. By 2013, the Smart Government initiative moved essential services to mobile phones. Today, most federal government services operate through digital channels, supported by electronic payment systems and the UAE Pass platform, which has over 13 million users.
The country appointed the world's first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017 and launched its AI Strategy 2031. A core part of that strategy requires all federal employees to develop proficiency in AI through mandatory training.
Learn more about AI for Government implementations and how public sector organizations are adopting these technologies.
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