The UAE will train millions of residents in artificial intelligence through a free nationwide initiative with Google that rolls out next year. The “AI for All” program targets everyone from students to seniors, government workers to entrepreneurs. Officials announced the partnership during UAE Coding Day, setting the stage for what could become the world’s largest national AI education effort.
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, said the program reflects the UAE’s commitment to preparing its people for an AI-powered future. The initiative plans to build a digitally skilled society that can lead in the global economy.
Economic Stakes Drive Urgent Training Push
Research from Public First shows that generative AI could add AED 298 billion to the UAE economy, equivalent to 19% of the country’s total economic output. Yet 52% of UAE adults say they don’t use AI tools to their full potential.
This skills gap creates both opportunity and urgency. The UAE wants to capture AI’s economic benefits while ensuring no one gets left behind in the technological shift.
Google’s Managing Director for MENA, Anthony Nakache, emphasized the inclusive approach. “Our collaboration builds on a shared belief – AI’s benefits must be accessible to all,” he said during the announcement.
The program extends Google’s existing Maharat min Google platform, which has already trained over 430,000 people in the UAE since launching in Arabic in 2018.
Comprehensive Training Covers All Age Groups
The initiative includes several targeted programs:
- Student Programs: Universities, schools, and colleges will integrate AI literacy modules into their curricula. Students learn prompt writing, creative AI applications, and responsible usage principles.
- Professional Development: Government employees, content creators, and professionals get specialized training on using AI tools for productivity and innovation.
- SME Business Training: Small and medium enterprises receive dedicated courses on leveraging AI for growth, operations improvement, and efficiency gains.
- Public Awareness Campaign: A nationwide campaign throughout 2026 will encourage all residents to complete basic AI training modules and try Google’s AI products, including Gemini.
The training covers practical skills like writing effective prompts for AI tools, using AI for creativity and productivity, and understanding privacy and data protection principles.
Free University Access Sweetens the Deal
Google has started preparing UAE students for the initiative. The company recently offered 12 months of free access to its Gemini 2.5 Pro model for university students aged 18 and above.
This preview gives students hands-on experience with advanced AI tools before the full program launches. The Gemini app helps students summarize information, create interactive quizzes, and even listen to AI-generated podcasts.
The university program extends across Iraq, Jordan, and the UAE, following similar launches in Egypt and Saudi Arabia earlier this year.
Training Program Launches Nationwide in 2026
The comprehensive rollout begins in 2026 with courses available in multiple languages and formats. Participants can access training through online platforms, in-person workshops, and integrated school curricula.
Officials plan to track progress through completion rates and skills assessments. The program builds on existing digital literacy foundations while adding AI capabilities.
The UAE positions this initiative as a model for other nations looking to prepare their populations for AI adoption. Success could influence similar programs across the Middle East and beyond.
The stakes are high, but the UAE has a track record of ambitious digital transformation projects. If successful, the AI for All program could create a generation of AI-literate citizens ready to drive the country’s continued economic diversification and technological leadership.
