The government of Dubai launched a new certification mechanism, the ‘Dubai AI Seal’, to promote trust in reliable artificial intelligence (AI) companies and establish the city as a global leader in AI. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for AI which was launched last April.
Developed by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), the Dubai AI Seal aims to create a network of trusted AI companies that government entities and businesses can rely on for secure AI solutions.
The Dubai AI Seal will also give companies a competitive advantage in government procurement and major national projects. Companies seeking to partner with UAE and Dubai government projects must be AI Seal certified.
Certified companies receive a unique serial number and will be classified under six tiers – E, D, C, B, A and S – to indicate the level of their economic contribution, with S representing the highest level of economic impact. Recipients will be permitted to display the seal across their digital platforms and promotional campaigns, showcasing their reliability and credibility.
DCAI said applications will be evaluated based on six areas: the nature of the companies’ activities and services, the number of employees specialising in AI, current and future projects, and partnerships within the public and private sectors.
Dubai is currently the world’s top location for attracting FDI in AI as a percentage of GDP and ranks seventh globally in readiness for adopting AI applications. The emirate hosts the headquarters of eight technology unicorns, which have leveraged the economic and investment opportunities provided by Dubai’s technology sector and large-scale digital transformation projects.
The Dubai Universal Blueprint for AI is a key component in meeting the targets set under the ‘Dubai Economic Agenda D33’ by contributing AED100 billion annually to Dubai’s economy and increasing productivity by 50% through the implementation of innovative digital solutions.
The yearly plan aims to accelerate the adoption of AI applications, transforming Dubai into a global hub for AI governance and legislation. This initiative involves providing necessary resources to attract innovators and leading technology companies. It also entails the ongoing development of regulations and laws for AI utilisation across sectors.
The plan further aims to make Dubai a world leader in the adoption of AI in government operations by implementing AI tools in government projects and future initiatives, as well as supporting these entities in effectively adopting future technologies.
As part of this agenda, the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with US tech giant IBM on 11 February at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025, which will focus on developing a sovereign cloud and AI innovation centre in Dubai to support development and market expansion.
“The UAE, through collaboration and supporting partnerships between the government and private sectors, aims to create an innovative model that cements its position as a leading global hub for the development, adoption, and application of artificial intelligence technologies,” said Omar Sultan AlOlama, Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.
IBM also confirmed its participation at the inaugural Dubai AI Week, which will take place from 21-25 April. The event will gather AI experts, thought leaders and decision makers from around the world for a series of conferences, initiatives and exhibitions. IBM is to host workshops, masterclasses and expert sessions as part of its support for the conference.
How can Sovereign PPG assist AI companies?
All technology companies that are licensed in Dubai and provide AI-related products or services can apply for the AI Seal free of charge on the DCAI portal. However, the seal is not a business licence and does not obviate the need to obtain a licence to operate in Dubai. For business looking to operate in artificial intelligence in Dubai, you should consider getting support from a registered corporate service provider on licensing for the appropriate AI business activities.
If you’re looking at setting up an AI business in the UAE, Sovereign PPG can guide and assist you through the processes involved in formation and licensing, as well as the external approvals required for your AI business activities. Please contact Sovereign PPG for further information Below.
