Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and Google Cloud have unveiled a strategic upskilling initiative specifically designed for Chief AI Officers (CAIOs). The move is further aimed at enhancing the applied expertise of AI leaders and accelerating Dubai’s AI ambitions, aligning with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence. Launched during Dubai AI Week, 2025, the initiative builds on the successes of the blueprint inaugurated in April 2024 by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of DFF. As part of this initiative, Chief AI Officers have been appointed across various Dubai government entities, WAM reported.
Empowering CAIOs with advanced tools and training
Additionally, the new program will offer CAIOs access to Google Cloud’s comprehensive suite of applied AI tools, training, and strategic insights—empowering them to spearhead high-impact AI deployments, drive innovation, and deliver tangible value within their respective entities.
Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, remarked, “Dubai is leading the way globally with the appointment of Chief AI Officers in government—an initiative overseen by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in June 2023. Today, just one year on, we have CAIOs across government. At DFF, we’re committed to forming global partnerships that support these leaders in staying ahead in one of the world’s fastest-moving fields.”
Strategic collaboration for global AI readiness
Moreover, Ziad Jammal, general manager for Google Cloud UAE, Levant, and North Africa, stated, “This initiative couldn’t come at a more important time. Investing in the capabilities of Dubai’s Chief AI Officers is essential to future-proofing government and reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global innovation hub. By equipping them with advanced knowledge in applied AI, we’re accelerating adoption and laying the groundwork for transformative impact across sectors.”
This strategic collaboration further aims to position Dubai among the top 10 cities in the global Government AI Readiness Index, while ensuring that government leaders are equipped with the necessary tools and insights to responsibly scale AI in service of society.
