UAE AI Adoption Soars to 97%, Setting Global Benchmark
▼ Summary
– 66% of UAE organizations have implemented GenAI use policies, reflecting growing AI acceptance across the country.
– 65% of UAE respondents would trust AI-provided information, with over half believing AI benefits outweigh risks.
– The UAE leads in AI literacy with 89% of residents experiencing AI benefits, surpassing the 83% global average.
– Despite positive sentiment, 73% of respondents expressed caution about online content due to AI-generated misinformation risks.
– 84% of UAE residents would trust AI more with assurances of responsible use, expecting co-regulation between government and international laws.
The United Arab Emirates has positioned itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence integration, with a remarkable 97 percent of UAE residents now using AI for professional, educational, or personal activities. This widespread adoption reflects a significant cultural and technological shift, establishing the nation as a regional benchmark for embracing advanced technologies. A recent study reveals that two-thirds of organizations in the UAE have already implemented specific policies governing the use of generative AI, signaling strong institutional acceptance.
Public confidence in AI systems is notably high within the country. According to the findings, 65 percent of UAE respondents expressed willingness to rely on information provided by AI, and a majority believe the advantages of artificial intelligence surpass its potential risks. The UAE also leads in AI training and digital literacy, with 89 percent of its population experiencing tangible benefits from AI, a figure that exceeds the global average of 83 percent.
Despite this optimistic outlook, the research highlights a clear public demand for continued regulatory evolution. While 68 percent of those surveyed in the UAE feel current regulations are adequate for ensuring safe AI use, far above the global average of 43 percent, many are calling for stronger protective measures. Concerns are particularly focused on AI-generated misinformation, with 73 percent of respondents reporting increased caution regarding online content and 36 percent unsure of their ability to identify misleading AI-generated material.
Matin Jouzdani, a partner specializing in data, analytics, and AI at KPMG Lower Gulf, emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with oversight. “AI is transforming how we live and work,” he noted. “While adoption rates in the UAE are exceptionally high, there is also strong public support for responsible regulation. Organizations deploying AI must prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical governance.”
Jouzdani added that combining AI training with robust governance frameworks will allow businesses to harness AI’s benefits without hindering innovation.
In response to growing concerns over synthetic content, UAE residents show strong support for co-regulation. An overwhelming 84 percent stated they would trust AI systems more if assured of their ethical and reliable use. Additionally, 86 percent believe that news and social media platforms should help users identify AI-generated content. There is a broad expectation that both government oversight and international laws will play a crucial role in maximizing AI’s positive impact on daily life and work.
On a reassuring note, survey participants expressed the highest levels of trust in universities, healthcare institutions, and government bodies to develop and use AI responsibly within the UAE.
(Source: Economy Middle East)
