The UAE has launched a groundbreaking AI curriculum aimed at modernizing education and preparing students for tomorrow’s challenges. This initiative positions the country at the forefront of integrating technology into learning, fostering innovation and adaptability among its youth.
The UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) has officially announced the integration of artificial intelligence as a subject in the public-school curriculum, covering all grades from kindergarten to Grade 12, starting from the 2025-2026 academic year. This significant move aims to equip students with essential knowledge and skills necessary to understand AI concepts and apply them in their daily lives. It is part of the UAE’s commitment to empowering youth to adapt to evolving global trends and drive innovation. By taking this step, the UAE further positions itself among the first countries to incorporate AI into school curricula.
A key national initiative supporting global leadership
In addition, this key national initiative supports the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in AI and digital transformation. In collaboration with Presight, a G42 company, AI71, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, and Emirates College for Advanced Education, the MoE aims to accelerate the adoption of technology in education. This effort further aligns with the country’s vision to invest in people and create a future-ready educational system that fosters sustainable national development.
Sarah Al Amiri, UAE minister of Education, stated, “Introducing AI across all public school levels is a strategic step that modernizes teaching tools and supports a generation of young people who understand tech ethics and can create smart, locally relevant solutions to future challenges. The integration of AI into classrooms reflects the UAE Government’s future-focused vision, reinforcing its global leadership in innovation- and tech-driven education and supporting its goal of building a knowledge-based society and a competitive digital economy led by skilled national talent.”
Commitment to nurturing future generations
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister, UAE minister of Foreign Affairs, and chairman of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, affirmed that the integration of AI into public education curricula signifies a strategic milestone that embodies the UAE’s forward-looking vision for education.
“It reflects our commitment to nurturing future generations who are equipped, today, with the tools they will need to thrive in tomorrow’s world. As rapid change reshapes our global landscape, technology stands as the defining language of our era and a key driver of progress,” H.H. Sheikh Abdullah also stated.
He added, “The UAE is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive understanding of AI, encompassing not only technical skills but also ethical and cultural awareness and responsible use of this transformative technology.”
“It is our collective duty to equip our children with the capabilities to lead in the world of the future,” he emphasized.
The Chairman of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council affirmed that the inclusion of artificial intelligence (AI) as a subject in the general education curricula is a strategic step that reflects the UAE’s vision for the future of education and its ongoing commitment to preparing generations who possess the tools of tomorrow, starting today.
Adapting to an unprecedented pace of change
“The world around us is changing at an unprecedented pace, and technology has become the language of the era and a driver of development,” H.H. Sheikh Abdullah remarked.
He added, “From this standpoint, the UAE is keen to empower students with a deep understanding of artificial intelligence technologies—not only from a technical perspective but also in terms of ethical and cultural awareness, and responsible engagement with this technology.”
He further emphasized, “Our collective responsibility now is to equip our sons and daughters with the skills that will enable them to lead in the world of the future.”
Read more: UAE announces major education update for academic year 2025–2026
Comprehensive curriculum spanning key areas
Moreover, the UAE’s AI curriculum encompasses seven key areas: foundational concepts, data and algorithms, software use, ethical awareness, real-world applications, innovation and project design, and policies and community engagement. It is designed to equip students with knowledge and skills tailored to each academic level, ensuring that all public school graduates are well-versed in AI fundamentals and capable of applying them in everyday life.
The curriculum further provides tailored units for each age group, beginning with kindergarten, where young children engage in visual and interactive activities to explore AI and other digital technologies through storytelling and play.
Preparing students for the future workforce
Additionally, in Cycle 1, students compare machines to humans, develop digital thinking skills, and explore AI applications. Cycle 2 focuses on designing and evaluating AI systems, learning about bias and algorithms, and emphasizing ethical AI use. Cycle 3 prepares students for higher education and careers by teaching command engineering and simulating real-world scenarios.
Furthermore, the new AI curriculum will be seamlessly integrated into existing school schedules without requiring additional teaching hours. Designated teachers will deliver the curriculum as part of the Computing, Creative Design, and Innovation subject.
The MoE will also provide comprehensive guides, including activities, models, and lesson plans that are adaptable to various classroom settings.
