Abu Dhabi has unveiled an ambitious strategy to establish the world's first fully AI-native government by 2027, a transformative initiative backed by a significant AED 13 billion investment.[1][2][3][4] This plan, spearheaded by the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE), aims to seamlessly integrate artificial intelligence across all government operations and public services.[1][2] The "Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027" outlines a clear roadmap to revolutionize governance, enhance efficiency, and create a proactive, agile, and technology-enabled future for its citizens, residents, and businesses.[5][1] At the core of this vision is the deployment of more than 200 innovative AI solutions and systems designed to automate processes, optimize service delivery, and fundamentally reshape the interaction between the public and the government.[5][1][6] This bold move signals a profound shift from traditional e-government and smart services to a governance model where AI is not just a tool, but a foundational element.[5][1]

The strategy is built upon several key pillars designed to create a robust and secure digital infrastructure capable of supporting a fully AI-powered state. A primary goal is to achieve 100% adoption of sovereign cloud computing for all government operations, ensuring that processes are entirely digitized and automated.[5][1][3] This foundational step is crucial for creating the flexible and scalable environment needed for the widespread implementation of AI.[1][3] Furthermore, the plan includes the development of a unified digital enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform to streamline operations, enhance productivity across government sectors, and reduce administrative overhead.[5][1] To ensure the security of this vast digital transformation, the government will also establish comprehensive cybersecurity guidelines and frameworks to proactively address potential challenges and safeguard the new digital ecosystem.[5][1] The more than 200 AI-driven solutions will be implemented across a wide range of government services, aiming to make them faster, smarter, and more efficient for the public.[2][4]

This initiative is not occurring in a vacuum but is the culmination of over a decade of digital evolution and a central component of the broader UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.[1][7][8] The national strategy aims to position the UAE as a global leader in AI, with the technology expected to contribute significantly to the nation's economy.[7][9][10] Abu Dhabi has already laid substantial groundwork to become a global hub for AI, boasting infrastructure such as 100% fibre-to-home broadband connectivity and the world's first AI-dedicated university, the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI).[5] This university, established in 2019, plays a pivotal role in developing top-tier AI talent and advancing research.[11][12][13] The emirate's commitment is further underscored by the establishment of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC) to guide policies and investments, as well as massive investment funds like MGX, which partners with global tech giants such as Microsoft and OpenAI to build a world-class AI infrastructure.[14][15][16][17]

The anticipated economic and societal implications of creating an AI-native government are vast. The strategy is projected to contribute over AED 24 billion to Abu Dhabi's GDP by 2027 and create more than 5,000 new, high-skilled jobs, supporting the nation's Emiratisation efforts.[5][1][2][3] Beyond the economic benefits, the plan emphasizes a people-centric approach. A key component of the strategy is the "AI for All" program, which focuses on training and empowering citizens with AI application skills, ensuring the workforce is prepared for a digital future.[5][2][4] By embedding AI, cloud technologies, and data-driven insights into the government's DNA, Abu Dhabi aims to transform public service delivery, optimize operations, and drive sustainable economic growth.[5][1][11] This comprehensive approach seeks not only to build a futuristic government but also to foster a society where technology serves every citizen effectively.[18]

In conclusion, Abu Dhabi's plan to become the first AI-native government is a landmark initiative that sets a new global benchmark for digital governance. Through a substantial financial commitment, a clear strategic framework, and the development of a comprehensive ecosystem that includes advanced infrastructure, world-class education, and strategic international partnerships, the emirate is positioning itself at the forefront of the AI revolution. The successful implementation of this strategy promises not only to radically transform public services and government efficiency within Abu Dhabi but also to offer a powerful model for how nations can harness the power of artificial intelligence to build more prosperous and innovative societies for the future.