Dubai’s Commitment to Global Innovation
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, emphasised the UAE’s determination to position itself as a leading global innovation hub through strategic partnerships with major technological companies. This initiative is part of a broader vision for technological transformation and future shaping.
Visit to Google Dubai Innovation Hub
During His Highness’s visit to Google’s offices in the Dubai Innovation Hub, he was welcomed by key executives, including Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google, and Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google in the Middle East and North Africa. They recognized the UAE as a pioneering model for leveraging advanced technologies and AI solutions.
Strong Synergy and Historical Partnership
This visit underscores the strong synergy between the UAE and Google, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. The partnership, established in 2008 when Google opened its Dubai office—the largest in the Middle East and North Africa—strengthens the UAE’s ongoing digital transformation journey.
Innovations and Economic Impact
During the visit, His Highness was informed about Google’s AI initiatives, including tools like the Gemini personal assistant and NotebookLM application. Furthermore, he previewed the Google Economic Impact Report for 2024, which details how Google’s products contribute to the economy and community in the UAE, marking the first of its kind for the region.
Google Accessibility Discovery Center
His Highness also learned about the Google Accessibility Discovery Center in Dubai, inaugurated in September 2024, which is one of only seven such facilities globally and the sole center in the Middle East and North Africa.
Training and Capacity Building
Google executives reiterated their commitment to supporting the UAE’s digital goals, noting that around 420,000 individuals have been trained in AI through the ‘Grow with Google’ programme, aimed at driving business growth in the region.
Dubai’s Strategic Vision
At the end of the visit, His Highness acknowledged the significant contributions of Google to the region and reaffirmed Dubai’s goal of using technological advancements to foster sustainable development. This commitment aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, targeting an annual economic value generation of AED100 billion from digital transformation initiatives.
