The UAE has unveiled the Artificial Intelligence Readiness Index, a new initiative designed to measure how prepared federal entities are to lead in the age of artificial intelligence.
The announcement was made by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, during the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
Al Olama revealed that under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE has achieved a 97 percent utilisation rate of AI tools across government entities — a record milestone reflecting the nation’s proactive and agile approach to technology adoption.
The new index will serve as a benchmark for assessing AI integration within government operations, helping identify strengths and opportunities for growth. The initiative also aligns with the UAE’s broader vision to remain at the forefront of global digital transformation.
Addressing a session attended by chief artificial intelligence officers from various federal bodies, Al Olama highlighted that the world is undergoing a comprehensive digital transformation, and countries that adopt and apply emerging technologies effectively are emerging as global leaders, even without developing these innovations locally.
He stressed that artificial intelligence is meant to empower, not replace, humans, and that its ultimate goal is to enhance productivity and efficiency. “With the advent of AI, competition is now determined by intelligence rather than size, and by speed rather than age,” he said, noting that AI multiplies the productivity of every Emirati, equating the nation’s capacity to that of 100 million people.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
