The UAE will launch the National Experts Programme – AI Track (NEP-AI) in June 2026. The initiative supports the UAE National AI Strategy 2031 and aims to expand AI adoption across government entities and key economic sectors. It will also help develop a new generation of Emirati AI leaders.
NEP-AI supports five objectives of the UAE National AI Strategy 2031. These include strengthening the UAE’s position as a global AI hub. The programme also seeks to boost competitiveness through applied AI. In addition, it aims to accelerate AI adoption in government services. It will further develop Emirati talent for AI-enabled roles. At the same time, it connects advanced research and digital infrastructure with practical applications across industries.
Emirati Professionals to Lead AI Transformation
The programme brings together Emirati professionals from 25 priority sectors. These sectors include Agentic AI, Data Economy and Monetization Models, AI Cybersecurity and Model Protection, and AI for People, Society and National Capability.
Participants will receive training in AI systems, governance and leadership. They will also take part in international study visits and mentorship programmes. In addition, they will complete capstone projects that address national challenges.
“The UAE has already established itself as one of the world’s leading AI ecosystems,” said Ahmed Al Shamsi, Director of the National Experts Program.
“With NEP-AI, our focus now is on moving beyond adoption to mastery. We want a specialised workforce that can shape policy and strengthen the UAE’s competitive position for decades to come.”
Agentic AI Becomes a Key Focus Area
The programme launches as the UAE advances plans to adopt agentic AI models across government operations. According to Al Shamsi, the country aims to achieve this within the next two years.
Unlike conventional AI systems, agentic AI can perform tasks independently. It can also manage complex processes with limited human intervention. Therefore, NEP-AI places strong emphasis on responsible leadership and governance. Participants will learn how to manage these systems in critical operational environments.
Selection Process Reflects Strong AI Talent Pipeline
NEP Fellows and programme alumni helped conduct the selection process. They carried out detailed interviews and assessments before choosing participants.
According to Professor Hoda Alkhzaimi, NEP-AI spokesperson, candidates showed a strong understanding of the UAE National AI Strategy 2031. They also recognised that successful AI adoption depends on effective institutional implementation.
She added that many candidates demonstrated exceptional ambition and capability. Furthermore, they showed the potential to create local and global impact. They also highlighted opportunities to generate value across sectors and strengthen national competitiveness.
Building on the UAE’s AI Momentum
NEP-AI builds on the UAE’s growing international standing in artificial intelligence. Global indicators continue to rank the country among the leading nations for institutional readiness and government-led AI adoption.
The UAE has invested heavily in digital infrastructure and talent development. As a result, it has created a strong foundation for future AI growth. NEP-AI now seeks to translate those investments into practical outcomes across government and industry.
