A new report on AI adoption from Microsoft has revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is continuing to strengthen its global position in embracing artificial intelligence technologies. The UAE has now topped countries worldwide with an impressive 70.1% adoption rate among its working-age population during the first quarter of 2026. The report further explained that the AI adoption rate in the UAE has steadily climbed from 59.4% to 64%, and then to 70.1% in the latest data. This makes the UAE the first global economy to surpass the 70% mark, at a time when many other regions around the world are still below 10%. The report also highlighted that AI use has become more deeply integrated into how people work and learn across the country. This integration is strongly supported by a robust digital infrastructure designed to boost flexibility, ensure continuous operations, and foster responsible growth. This achievement truly showcases the UAE's standing among the world's most advanced economies. It also confirms that the country's adoption rate continues to significantly outperform the global average of 17.8%. This success clearly reflects the ongoing national focus on developing digital capabilities and strengthening the innovation ecosystem. Amr Kamel, General Manager of Microsoft UAE, commented that the UAE's global leadership in AI adoption is the result of years of sustained effort from the government, businesses, and individuals, all working to build the right foundations. Looking at the global picture, Microsoft's Q1 2026 report showed a widening gap between the Global North and Global South. AI adoption in higher-income economies grew at more than double the pace compared to other regions. The report also pointed out that challenges like digital connectivity, digital infrastructure, and AI capabilities in local languages are major hurdles preventing the fair spread of these technologies. It emphasized that thoughtful, long-term investment is the most effective solution to these issues.
Related editorial
NTI and Huawei Partner to Train Egyptian Talent in Key Digital Technologies
The National Telecommunication Institute (NTI) and Huawei are teaming up to offer exciting new training programs! These courses cover essential digital skills like AI, Big Data, network infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and 5G, helping young Egyptians get ready for the jobs of tomorrow.
iSchool Boosts Endeavor Saudi Arabia's AI Readiness with Specialized Training
iSchool recently partnered with Endeavor Saudi Arabia to deliver a three-day practical training program. This initiative focused on equipping Endeavor's team with essential AI skills, covering specialized topics like prompt engineering, integrating AI into digital product development, and leveraging AI for marketing and media strategies.
Egyptian Engineering Talent Shines: Ain Shams University Team Makes History at UK Formula Student
The Ain Shams University engineering team recently made history at the UK Formula Student competition, becoming the first from Egypt and Africa to win the Formula AI category for autonomous vehicles. But their success didn't stop there! They also snagged impressive second-place finishes in the Simulation and System Design challenges, truly showcasing their comprehensive engineering skills and innovative spirit.
Saudi Arabia's Digital App Market Thrives with Government Services and AI Leading the Charge by 2025
A new report, 'Saudi Internet 2025,' reveals that communication and government service apps are incredibly popular in the Kingdom. What's really exciting is the significant rise of AI applications, which are quickly becoming some of the most downloaded in Saudi Arabia.