Abu Dhabi has launched a new executive training programme to help senior government leaders develop AI policymaking skills. The initiative supports the emirate’s plan to become the world’s first fully AI-powered government by 2027.
The Department of Government Enablement (DGE) introduced the AI-powered Policy Development Programme for Executive Directors and equivalent senior officials. These leaders oversee policy design, implementation and governance. The programme is delivered in partnership with Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP).
Programme focuses on practical policymaking skills
Participants will learn how to identify policy challenges and choose the right policy tools. They will also explore ways to remove implementation barriers and engage stakeholders more effectively. In addition, the programme introduces international best practices that align with Abu Dhabi’s government priorities.
A core module will take place in Singapore. It covers impact assessment, behavioural insights and policy communication. Participants will also study monitoring and evaluation, Smart Nation Singapore and the use of AI in government transformation. As a result, they will gain practical skills to turn government strategies into measurable outcomes.
Initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s digital transformation strategy
The programme supports Abu Dhabi’s Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027, which the Executive Council approved in January 2025.
The AED13 billion ($3.54 billion) strategy aims to make Abu Dhabi the first government in the world to fully integrate AI into its digital services by 2027. It also targets full digitisation of government processes and complete adoption of sovereign cloud computing. Furthermore, the government plans to develop and deploy more than 200 AI solutions across public services.
DGE highlights leadership development
Dr Yasir Al Naqbi, Director General of GovAcademy at DGE, said the programme reflects the department’s commitment to developing future-ready government leaders.
“The programme reflects our commitment to investing in government leaders to improve people-centred services and public sector performance.”
He added that the initiative will help build a government ecosystem that anticipates future needs. It will also encourage agile and evidence-based policymaking across the public sector.
AI strategy aims to boost growth and create jobs
Abu Dhabi’s wider digital strategy is expected to add AED24 billion ($6.53 billion) to the emirate’s GDP by 2027. It is also expected to create more than 5,000 local jobs.
Moreover, the strategy goes beyond AI integration. It includes a unified digital ERP platform, a stronger customer experience ecosystem and new initiatives to attract global companies and foreign investment.
