Emirati education experts have urged schools and universities to focus on guiding and structuring artificial intelligence in classrooms rather than relying on technology alone, describing AI as a transformative moment that demands intellectual discipline alongside innovation.
Speaking on Emirati Education Day on 28 February 2026, experts from the UAE National Experts Programme said the future of education will depend on how artificial intelligence is understood, regulated, and integrated into learning environments. Their remarks come as the UAE approves a list of generative AI platforms for classroom use under a formal framework designed to ensure safe and responsible adoption.
Khulood Alawadi stressed that AI should be treated as a field of study rather than simply a teaching aid, noting that students must understand how such systems function, their limitations, and the ethical responsibilities tied to their use. She added that teachers must remain the primary source of academic guidance as reliance on automated feedback grows, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust between educators and students.
Experts acknowledged that generative AI tools are already embedded in students’ academic routines, capable of drafting essays and summarizing research within seconds. However, Khaled Al Remeithi warned that convenience should not replace independent reasoning, underscoring education’s ongoing role in strengthening critical thinking and analytical skills.
The rise of AI is also prompting a shift in assessment models. Hareth Alhashmi said future classrooms will prioritize depth of understanding and the ability to question information rather than speed of production.
While highlighting opportunities such as personalized learning and improved research efficiency, Kaltham Ali noted that mentorship, values, and judgment remain distinctly human responsibilities.
The programme’s Artificial Intelligence track, launched on 29 January 2026, has already received more than 800 applications. Applications close on 23 March, with the first cohort of 25 Emirati AI professionals set to begin in May 2026, focusing on governance, ethics, and responsible AI aligned with UAE regulatory frameworks.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
