Sheikh Mohammed launches UAE Artificial Intelligence strategy

With a Robocop patrolling the city’s malls, drones monitoring the streets and ample machines in place to make services quicker and more efficient, it’s safe to say that Dubai well and truly loves technology.

So much so, that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced plans to expand the nation’s use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The initiative, that forms part of the UAE’s Centennial 2071 objective, aims to improve government performance as well as create an innovative and highly-productive environment.

Speaking on the news, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said: “UAE Centennial 2071 forges ahead now by launching mega enterprises like Artificial Intelligence to lay a sold basis for the coming period. We initiated electronic services 16 years go and today we are launching a fresh stage relying on Artificial Intelligence.”

He added: “We are seeking to adopt all tools and methodologies related to artificial intelligence to expedite and ensure more efficiency for government services at all levels.”

Sheikh Mohammed also revealed that the UAE aims to become a major hub for developing AI techniques and legislation, and that young Emiratis will need to be trained to help meet to meet the nation’s “supreme national interests”.

While we wait to see what the nation’s new tech plans entail, here’s a brief rundown of some the AI services currently available in the UAE, more specifically Dubai.

Robocop
The Dubai Police officially introduced “Robocop” to their police force this past May. The robot that stands at a height of 170cm can be found patrolling the city’s various malls. It has the ability to detect emotions and hand gestures from a distance of 1.5 meters as well as map the insides of a building and navigate its path automatically via its self-control and drive feature.

Robot custom inspector
The android is capable of detecting body language, thermal heat. It also has the ability to out facial recognition and track luggage. Its unique features and realistic design has already scooped up a number of awards which includes the Best Idea award at last year’s Best World Ideas Award in Germany.

Autonomous vehicles
In the past year, the city has invested a vast amount of time and money into autonomous travel. In February this year the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) signed a contract with Tesla founder Elon Musk, agreeing to buy 200 Tesla Model X and Model S motor vehicles. Since then, the first 50 Model X’s have been introduced to Dubai’s public transport system and can be found on Uber’s, UberOne service.