In a landmark move to future-proof education and equip the next generation with cutting-edge skills, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will become a mandatory subject in UAE schools.
The announcement was made during a Cabinet meeting, where Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the nation’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies into all aspects of life, particularly education.
“As part of the UAE’s long-term plans to prepare future generations for a different future, a new world, and advanced skills, the UAE government today approved the final curriculum to introduce “Artificial Intelligence” as a subject across all stages of government education in the UAE, from kindergarten to grade 12, starting from the next academic year”, Sheikh Mohammed added.
His Highness further remarked: “We appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Education in developing a comprehensive curriculum, affirming that artificial intelligence will transform the way the world lives. Our goal is to teach our children a deep understanding of AI from a technical perspective, while also fostering their awareness of the ethics of this new technology, enhancing their understanding of its data, algorithms, applications, risks, and connection to society and life.”
Sheikh Mohammed added, “Our responsibility is to equip our children for a time unlike ours, with conditions different from ours, and with new skills and capabilities that ensure the continued momentum of development and progress in our nation for decades to come.”
The initiative aligns with the UAE’s National AI Strategy 2031, which aims to position the country as a global leader in artificial intelligence. The curriculum will cover foundational AI concepts, ethical considerations, and real-world applications, with content tailored to age-appropriate levels from early schooling through high school.
The Ministry of Education is expected to roll out the AI modules starting in the 2025 academic year, with a phased implementation across public and private schools. Teachers will receive specialized training, and partnerships with tech companies and universities will be forged to enrich the content.
Educational experts have lauded the move, calling it a bold step to place UAE students at the forefront of the global digital economy. “This decision will dramatically boost tech literacy and critical thinking among students,” a technology education specialist said.
With this initiative, the UAE reinforces its vision to lead the Arab world in innovation, talent development, and digital transformation.
