How are UAE industries transforming through intelligent technologies?

The UAE is rapidly emerging as a global hub for artificial intelligence innovation, with industries leveraging AI tools to revolutionise operations. A panel session at Make It In The Emirates in Abu Dhabi discussed exactly this.

In the defense sector, Edge Group is pioneering AI-powered transformations. Dr. Chaouki Kasmi, president of technology and innovation, highlighted their approach.

“We are bringing revolutionary AI applications in our products, including space situational awareness, AI-powered sensors, electronic systems, and autonomous platforms,” he said.

The group is not just implementing AI, but fundamentally rethinking their operational model through intelligent technologies.

Microsoft UAE is playing a crucial role in this digital transformation. Maitha Al Suwaidi, chief operating officer at Microsoft UAE, shared compelling examples of AI applications across industries.

In healthcare, Abu Dhabi Health developed a patient assistant that integrates medical records and enables seamless booking across medical facilities. In manufacturing, Emirates Global Aluminum implemented a digital platform using Microsoft Azure services, augmenting AI across 150 use cases and earning recognition from the World Economic Forum.

Venture One, through its AI 71 initiative, is developing specialised vertical AI solutions targeting specific industry challenges. Reda Nidhaku, the company’s acting CEO explained their approach, focusing on "agentic AI that augments employees" and creating tools for specific sectors.

In construction, they collaborated with the Department of Municipalities and Transport to automate permitting processes, reducing weeks-long compliance checks to instant evaluations.

In healthcare, they're testing an AI Doctor assistant and developing solutions to streamline patient discharge and insurance claim processes.

Looking to the future

The investment sector is also experiencing AI-driven transformation. Mubadala has integrated Maya, an AI companion, into its investment committee process. The AI tool helps filter investment opportunities, analyze macroeconomic data, and provide recommendations, enhancing decision-making without replacing human expertise.

Thomas Pramotedham, the CEO of Presight, emphasised the UAE's unique ecosystem, noting that the country's leadership vision of creating an "AI-native government" has been instrumental in attracting technological innovation.

The ecosystem supports companies in developing, testing, and exporting AI solutions globally.
These AI tools are not just technological experiments but strategic implementations driving efficiency, innovation, and economic diversification.

The UAE's approach combines robust infrastructure, forward-thinking policies, and a commitment to attracting global AI talent.

Dr. Kasmi summarised the sentiment perfectly. “We are a technology company that happens to operate in the defense sector...rethinking our operating model with revolutionary technologies."

As industries continue to integrate AI, the UAE is positioning itself as a global leader in intelligent technology adoption, demonstrating how strategic investment and ecosystem support can transform traditional sectors through artificial intelligence.