Abu Dhabi's $13 billion AI strategy to build world’s first fully automated government

Abu Dhabi has announced a major transformation plan that aims to make it the world’s first fully AI-native government across all digital services by 2027, according to the Department of Government Enablement. This is a part of the Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy planned from 2025 to 2027. The strategy aims to develop the public sector in Abu Dhabi in a way that ensures its complete connection, automation, and utilisation of artificial intelligence. This strategy is being developed in collaboration between the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE) and other government bodies.

Abu Dhabi aims for the world’s first fully AI-powered government operations

The strategy is aimed at leveraging AI and automation technologies in improving government operations. The city of Abu Dhabi plans to completely digitise and automate all government operations in a few years from now. This plan comes after other earlier stages of digital advancement in Abu Dhabi, where the emirate started by using e-government and eventually smart government technologies before moving to an AI government era, where artificial intelligence would be extensively used.According to official details, more than 200 AI solutions are expected to be deployed across government services. These tools are designed to improve efficiency and reduce manual processes across departments.

Inside the plan to build a fully digital government system

The most important part of this aspect is to focus on building a strong digital infrastructure, which includes plans to achieve 100% adoption of sovereign cloud computing.The plan also includes the development of a unified digital enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which is intended to integrate different government functions into one platform. As reported by The Department of Government Enablement, the total investment of AED 13 billion between 2025 and 2027 will be directed towards technology development, infrastructure upgrades, and digital transformation initiatives.

How the “AI for all” programme is preparing a future-ready workforce

The “AI for All” programme is one of the key components of the strategy. It focuses on training government employees and citizens in artificial intelligence tools and applications. The aim is to build a workforce capable of operating in an AI-driven environment.This training effort is seen as essential for the long-term success of the strategy. It ensures that employees across departments are prepared to use new digital systems effectively.The initiative also includes collaboration with academic and research institutions. The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence is involved in upskilling programmes and research support related to AI technologies.

Technology partnerships and AI ecosystem expansion

The strategy is based on collaboration with key organisations in the technology industry. For instance, the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) is assisting in the research for large language models and sophisticated AI technologies.Moreover, technology companies like G42 are actively involved in the development of AI capabilities and digital capacities. Government-based platforms such as TAMM are undergoing further developments towards even more sophisticated platforms. The improved platform, known as TAMM 3.0, is envisioned to become a digital backbone for the government services that involve AI and cloud computing.

Economic impact and future outlook

As per the official reports, the plan is expected to contribute more than AED 24 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP by 2027, which is aiming to create over 5,000 jobs, particularly in digital services, artificial intelligence, and technology-related fields. The plan also includes strong cybersecurity frameworks to protect government systems and data. These measures are designed to support safe and reliable digital operations across all departments.