UAE launches AI curriculum for students to lead tech innovation

The United Arab Emirates is taking a bold step toward positioning itself as an AI leader in the Middle East by integrating artificial intelligence education into its public school system. Starting with the 2025-2026 academic year, students from kindergarten through 12th grade will receive AI education that combines technical knowledge with ethical considerations, representing a significant investment in developing future AI talent and literacy across the entire educational pipeline.

The big picture: The UAE is implementing AI education across all grade levels in public schools beginning this academic year, signaling the country’s commitment to becoming a regional AI powerhouse.

• The comprehensive curriculum will span from kindergarten through 12th grade, creating a continuous educational pathway for developing AI literacy.
• The program includes both practical technical concepts and ethical awareness components, reflecting a holistic approach to AI education.

Why this matters: Early AI education positions the UAE to build long-term competitive advantages in an increasingly AI-driven global economy.

• By starting AI education in kindergarten, the UAE is creating a generational investment that could yield a substantial homegrown talent pipeline.
• This curriculum initiative aligns with broader national strategies to diversify the UAE’s economy beyond traditional oil and gas sectors.

Behind the numbers: Gulf nations like the UAE are making strategic investments in technology sectors to address economic challenges associated with fossil fuel dependence.

• The education initiative represents part of a larger pattern of technology investments aimed at creating knowledge economy jobs and reducing reliance on energy exports.
• Early adoption of AI education could give the UAE a first-mover advantage in developing regional AI expertise.

What to watch: The UAE’s approach could become a model for other countries looking to build comprehensive AI literacy from the ground up.

• The effectiveness of teaching complex AI concepts to very young students will be closely monitored by education experts globally.
• How the ethical components of the curriculum address emerging AI concerns will likely influence similar programs internationally.