On 14 June 2026, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, approved the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority, a single national body responsible for data, artificial intelligence, and digital government in the UAE, reporting directly to the Cabinet.
This step aims to unify public data, artificial intelligence, and digital government capabilities, consolidating them into a single national ecosystem as the UAE government enhances its readiness for a new phase of AI-powered digital transformation.
Consolidation of Existing Bodies
The Authority consolidates three existing bodies:
- The Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications;
- The Digital Government Sector at the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority; and
- The UAE Data Office.
Functions and Mandate
The Authority will be responsible for driving a unified national digital government agenda by coordinating priorities and strategic directions for the adoption of Agentic AI across government. It shall formulate national policies, legislative frameworks and strategies, while promoting alignment and integration of digital programmes and initiatives at both the federal and local levels.
The Authority will also oversee the development and implementation of the national artificial intelligence strategy, promote the growth of the digital economy to increase its contribution to the national GDP, and govern government data to ensure its quality, accessibility and secure sharing among federal entities.
In addition, the Authority will establish standards, frameworks and guidelines for data governance, artificial intelligence, digital transformation and government service delivery, and monitor compliance with these requirements across federal entities. It will also strengthen national capabilities in AI and digital transformation through research, innovation, technical expertise and advisory support.
Furthermore, the Authority will foster international collaboration and strategic partnerships in the areas of artificial intelligence, data governance and digital government, while supporting national cybersecurity initiatives and enhancing the management of government information security.
As AI technologies continue to evolve, businesses should consider the intellectual property implications of AI-generated innovations, data use, and ownership structures. For further guidance, please contact Rajiv Suri at r.suri@alsuwaidi.ae.