Crown Prince Launches Dubai's First PhD In AI, Advancing Innovation And Future Readiness

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Future Foundation, attended the launch of Dubai's first PhD program in Artificial Intelligence, introduced by the University of Birmingham Dubai during Dubai AI Week 2025.

This new program is a significant step in Dubai's plan to become a leading global center for AI. It supports the UAE's National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and aligns with Dubai's goal to promote innovation through advanced education and research, WAM reported.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the important role of academic initiatives in building a strong local and global innovation environment. He noted that education is essential for preparing skilled talent to support Dubai's future development.

"The new PhD program will help develop specialized talent in key areas of artificial intelligence, including smart city development, advanced healthcare, sustainability, and future mobility – core components of Dubai's ongoing digital transformation," he added.

The new PhD program aims to develop skilled talent to support local innovation and promote ethical, inclusive, and effective AI development in the region. It is fully accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education's Commission for Academic Accreditation and recognized for high academic and research standards.

Students in the program will study various fields such as AI applications in medicine and healthcare, natural language processing, computer vision, AI ethics and regulations, and trustworthy AI.

The program offers personalized academic guidance, advanced research training, and access to AI labs, incubators, and government innovation projects.

The initiative was created in partnership with the UAE National Program for Artificial Intelligence, showing the country's dedication to equipping future generations with the skills needed to lead in the AI era.

Dubai AI Week, being held from April 21 to 25, brings together international experts, entrepreneurs, policymakers, regulators, investors, and innovators — from startups to global tech companies — to promote and advance AI innovation worldwide.

Earlier this week, the 13th Conference of the United Arab Society of Radiology Societies and the 9th Annual Meeting of the Emirates Radiology Society wrapped up in Dubai, focusing on how artificial intelligence can aid in treating strokes and breast cancer.