The UAE has achieved fifth place in the Global Vibrancy Tool 2024, cementing its status as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI).
This tool, created by the Stanford Institute for Human-Centred AI, evaluates 36 countries based on 42 AI-specific factors like research, private investment, patents, and infrastructure. The UAE’s position reflects significant AI investments, including initiatives like Abu Dhabi’s Technology Innovation Institute (TII).
“Over the years, the UAE has shown a strong commitment to becoming a global leader in AI,” the report stated.
The US tops the list, followed by China, the UK, and India. The UAE, however, stands ahead of major nations like France, Germany, Japan, and Singapore, showcasing its growing influence in AI development.
What makes the Global Vibrancy Tool unique is its flexibility. Users can adjust the weight of different indicators to reflect various perspectives on AI rankings, said Vanessa Parli, director of research at Stanford HAI.
First launched in 2017, the tool was relaunched this year with expanded data.
UAE Leads AI Initiatives
Since launching its UAE Strategy for AI in 2017, the country has implemented advanced AI systems across key sectors. Omar Al Olama, the world’s first Minister of AI, oversees these efforts.
Recently, the UAE Cabinet unveiled an international AI policy to address potential misuse of the technology. This includes participating in global AI forums, promoting transparency, and supporting ethical standards. Additionally, all major federal entities now have dedicated chief AI executives to drive progress.
The UAE has also developed cutting-edge AI solutions, such as Falcon 2, TII’s updated large language model, and Jais Chat, a bilingual chatbot created by Core42. These advancements reflect the UAE’s ambition to compete with global tech giants like OpenAI and Google.
In another milestone, Microsoft plans to open an AI for Good Lab in Abu Dhabi, marking the first such facility in the Middle East. This follows Microsoft’s $1.5 billion investment in G42, an Abu Dhabi-based AI and cloud company.
US Leads the Way in AI
Globally, the US continues to dominate AI innovation. It excels in areas like research quality, private investments, and the development of machine learning models. Additionally, the US leads in AI job postings, startup funding, and merger activity.
With countries like the UAE rising rapidly in AI development, the global AI landscape continues to evolve, paving the way for new advancements and opportunities.
