His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the official inclusion of artificial intelligence (AI) as a core subject across all stages of public education in the UAE. The decision has been met with enthusiastic support from educators, experts, students, and parents alike, who see it as a visionary move to equip young generations with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Preparing Students for the Digital Age
Educational consultant Alia Al Shamsi described the initiative as a transformative milestone for UAE education. “By embedding AI into the curriculum, the UAE is positioning itself among leading nations investing in a creative, tech-savvy generation,” she said. According to Al Shamsi, this strategic approach anticipates future challenges while nurturing innovation from the classroom upwards.
Echoing similar sentiments, education expert Amna Al Mazmi noted that introducing AI at all school levels boosts students’ readiness for a rapidly evolving global landscape. “This empowers them to be innovators and decision-makers in fields like digital economy, advanced technology, and data-driven leadership,” she explained, emphasizing the role of AI in cultivating critical, forward-thinking skills.
Beyond Coding: A New Learning Paradigm
Dr. Mohammed Abdelzaher, an artificial intelligence specialist, stressed that the initiative extends far beyond basic coding lessons. “We’re talking about teaching AI as a standalone scientific discipline, not just as a tool,” he clarified. Abdelzaher underscored that students will explore foundational AI concepts, methodologies, and real-world applications from an academic perspective—starting from school.
Education expert Salma Eid believes the integration of AI into school curricula marks a shift in the very purpose of education. “Schools are no longer simply delivering information—they are nurturing thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators capable of navigating a fast-paced digital environment,” she explained.
Teachers at the Heart of Change
However, several experts highlighted that real change begins with teachers. Education specialist Waleed Lafi emphasized the critical role of educators as the link between students and this new curriculum. “We need specialized training programs, interactive learning resources, and a professional learning community to support teachers in this journey,” he said.
Similarly, AI education consultant Ayman Al Najjar pointed out that teaching AI isn’t just about introducing programming skills. “Students need to grasp fundamental concepts like algorithms, machine learning, and data analysis, along with exploring AI applications in fields such as healthcare, transportation, environment, and education,” he explained. He described AI as “the language of the future—one we cannot afford to ignore.”
Teacher Ibrahim Al Qabbani stressed the importance of equipping educators with effective teaching tools to simplify complex AI topics, turning them into engaging content that sparks curiosity and critical thinking. Meanwhile, teacher Rebal Ghassan Al Atta underscored the need for flexible teaching methods that account for students’ individual differences and foster passion and self-directed learning.
Excitement Among Students and Parents
Students themselves expressed excitement about the new curriculum. Rashid Azizi, a 10th grader, shared his enthusiasm for learning AI, calling it “a powerful field with limitless possibilities.” Fellow students Maryam Al Saudi and Khaled Al Humaidan voiced their eagerness to understand algorithms and develop innovative ideas that contribute to smarter communities—particularly in vital sectors like healthcare and environmental sustainability.
Parents have also welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of awareness programs to help families understand and support their children’s learning journey in this modern field.
A Pioneering Educational Vision
By embedding AI education from the earliest school years, the UAE is setting a pioneering example in preparing a digitally literate, innovative generation ready to lead in the age of artificial intelligence. This forward-looking initiative signals not just curriculum reform but a broader cultural shift toward a knowledge-based, future-focused society.
