Highlighting its growing prominence in AI enterprise density, the UAE stands alongside innovation hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong.

This milestone reflects the UAE’s strategic vision to become a global leader in AI, driven by progressive policies, robust infrastructure, and targeted investments.

Dmitry Kaminskiy, General Partner of Deep Knowledge Group said: “The UAE’s ranking among the top 10 countries for AI companies per capita demonstrates how targeted investments are creating an ecosystem where AI innovation thrives. This is a blueprint for how nations can transform strategic vision into measurable impact.”

The UAE has consistently demonstrated its commitment to AI at the highest levels. In 2017, the UAE became the first nation to appoint an AI Minister, a groundbreaking move to embed AI at the core of its national strategy.

The government’s AI Strategy 2031 aims to contribute AED335bn ($91bn) to GDP by 2031 and reduce operational costs by 50 per cent through AI innovation.

The UAE has also established the AED10bn ($2.7bn) Dubai Future Accelerator Fund to support AI innovation projects. Complementing this is the nation’s business-friendly environment and zero personal income tax.

To support its AI ambitions, the UAE is rapidly building a talent pipeline. Key initiatives include the Golden Visa program, offering 10-year residency to AI professionals, and the establishment of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), the world’s first dedicated AI research university.

Partnerships with top global universities have further enhanced the UAE’s AI research capabilities, supported by high-value scholarships and advanced research funding. As a result, the UAE boasts an annual AI talent growth rate of 30 per cent.

The UAE’s world-class digital infrastructure underpins its leadership in AI innovation. With over 90 per cent 5G network coverage, 97.1 per cent internet penetration, and the largest data centre cluster in the Middle East, the nation provides an unparalleled environment for AI companies to thrive.

Its well-developed smart city infrastructure offers the perfect testing ground for cutting-edge AI applications.