The UAE includes "Artificial Intelligence" as a comprehensive subject starting from kindergarten.
In a pioneering step aimed at preparing future generations, the UAE government has adopted the "Artificial Intelligence" curriculum as a new subject covering all educational stages in government schools, starting from kindergarten up to twelfth grade.
The implementation of the curriculum will begin with the start of the new academic year 2025-2026, as part of an ambitious national strategy to empower students with digital age skills.
The official announcement was made by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on the "X" platform, emphasizing the importance of this step in preparing future generations for a future driven by advanced technologies.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum pointed out that the aim of including the new subject goes beyond just introducing artificial intelligence, to encompass building a deep understanding of its technologies, ethics, and practical applications in various aspects of life.
He said: "We appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Education in developing a comprehensive curriculum, and we affirm that artificial intelligence will change the nature of the world's life."
He also stressed that the initiative aims to enable students to understand data, algorithms, and potential risks of this technology, ensuring their readiness to lead the development process amidst the era's changes.
This step falls within the "National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031" launched by the UAE in 2017 to enhance its position as a global leader in this field. The strategy includes a series of educational and training initiatives, such as launching specialized academic programs and establishing training camps to build national competencies.
With this decision, the UAE becomes a global leader in integrating artificial intelligence into curricula, reflecting its efforts to build a comprehensive educational system that meets the requirements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The UAE Ministry of Education is working to enhance the educational infrastructure through partnerships with leading institutions in the field of artificial intelligence, such as "Breyer" under "G42," and "AI71," and the Mohammed bin Zayed University for Artificial Intelligence. These partnerships aim to integrate modern technologies into the educational environment and develop students' skills in programming and analysis.
Sara bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of Education, emphasized that this step represents a qualitative leap in the educational system, contributing to preparing a generation capable of employing artificial intelligence in developing innovative solutions that serve society.
She explained that the new subject will equip students with advanced skills that meet the future job market needs, enhancing the UAE's position as a global destination for innovation and digital economy.
Teaching artificial intelligence is expected to develop students' critical and creative thinking skills, as well as open new horizons for research and innovation in vital areas such as health, security, and smart services.
Through this initiative, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to building an advanced educational model, preparing youth to lead future transformations and enhancing the country's global competitiveness in advanced technology.
