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Coursera Report Shows Surge In UAE Interest In AI Upskilling

The Emirates lead the Middle East and North Africa for skill proficiency and come second globally for business.

Published

7 months ago

July 2, 2024

coursera report shows surge in uae interest in ai upskilling

Applications for generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) courses in the UAE have rocketed by over 1,100% during the past year, according to Coursera’s Global Skills Report 2024.

The enrolment rate easily surpassed the MENA region’s already impressive 861% year-on-year growth and the worldwide rate of 1,060%, signifying an increase in interest from UAE learners in AI and machine learning skill sets.

“Compared to other markets, the UAE has a higher number of expats, so the workforce structure may be more inclined to adopt technology-related or technology-impacted roles,” said Nikolaz Foucaud, Coursera’s managing director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

According to Coursera, the Emirates is now a leader in AI education, ranking third globally in the GenAI sector behind the USA and China. During the first quarter of 2024, over 1 million UAE users were active on the platform, with a median age of 35.

The MENA region is set to become a key player in digital transformation and trade, according to the report, as significant investments continue to be made in technology infrastructure and logistics. However, there is still a pressing need to boost technology skills proficiency, which currently sits at around 40%.

Also Read: The Most AI-Proof Career Opportunities In The Middle East

“When you speak to employers, they emphasize skills that AI disruption cannot easily replace or enhance in the short term – social skills, human skills, interpersonal skills, the ability to collaborate, lead teams, and communicate effectively, including public speaking,” Coursera’s Foucaud added.

Coursera’s report also highlights the importance of career-focused, accessible skill development, along with initiatives to further gender inclusivity in the online learning sector. Women in the UAE currently comprise 33% of Coursera learners, with 27% studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Related Topics:Artificial Intelligence United Arab Emirates

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“AI Seal” Certification Now Required For Dubai Gov Partnerships

The new mandatory certification is designed to build trust in AI companies and create a reliable network of providers for government and public collaboration.

Published

13 hours ago

January 21, 2025

Nour Nasir

ai seal certification now required for dubai gov partnerships

Dubai Media Office

Dubai has introduced the Dubai AI Seal, a certification designed to establish trust in artificial intelligence (AI) companies and solutions. This initiative, directed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, aims to create a reliable network of AI providers which government entities and businesses can collaborate confidently.

Companies must now obtain the AI Seal to qualify for UAE or Dubai government contracts. The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), which developed the certification, sees it as a competitive edge for companies looking to participate in key national projects. Once certified, businesses will be permitted to showcase the seal across their websites and marketing materials, signaling their credibility and dependability.

The evaluation process will consider six main criteria: the company’s services and operations, the number of employees specializing in AI, ongoing and future projects, as well as existing partnerships with public and private sector entities.

dubai ai seal certification

Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, which oversees the DCAI, commented on the initiative’s potential: “This initiative will help create powerful partnerships between the public and private sectors, locally, regionally, and globally. It will help drive new economic opportunities by leveraging AI to serve better the economy, society, and the future we aspire to”.

Also Read: Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East

The Dubai AI Seal’s goals include providing a clear framework for verifying AI providers, fostering business opportunities for AI companies, and acknowledging the industry’s strategic importance to Dubai’s economy. The initiative emphasizes AI’s role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening collaboration between government bodies and technology firms.

All technology companies operating in Dubai and offering AI-related services or products are eligible to apply for the certification at no cost through the official website.