Dubai: Internationally acclaimed universities and higher education institutions based at Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, part of TECOM Group PJSC, are offering specialised pathways to equip students with industry-ready artificial intelligence (AI) skills and prepare future talent to address the evolving needs of the global economy. Universities across both districts are introducing AI programmes, modules, and co-curricular activities as 82% of Dubai's students agree tech will impact their future in the coming decade, according to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism's and Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority's Jobs of the Future report. These pathways offer opportunities for talent to align their academic specialisations with roles - including those in areas such as engineering, mathematics, science, and technology - that contribute towards achieving the goals of Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and Education 33 strategy (E33).

According to Emirates News Agency, Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, stated, 'Today's academic programmes must empower generations of learners that are increasingly more tech-savvy than ever before.' He emphasized the importance of equipping emerging talent with digital skills, ensuring the coexistence and growth of human ingenuity alongside AI. The commitment to expanding ecosystems aligns with the vision of Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), Education 33 strategy (E33), and Dubai's Universal Blueprint for AI, encouraging students to embrace future readiness through AI programmes and initiatives at these institutions.

Universities within Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park are at the forefront of this transformation, rolling out innovative programmes and initiatives designed to bridge this skills gap and foster career-readiness. The universities offer specialised programmes, including the Bachelor of Computer Science from Amity University Dubai, which focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, in addition to Middlesex University Dubai's programmes in Data Analytics, Smart Marketing, and Global Business Management. Furthermore, the University of Birmingham Dubai announced the launch of the emirate's first PhD degree in Artificial Intelligence.

In this context, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) is integrating AI into its educational curricula through research projects such as ChatEV, while Abu Dhabi University (ADU) uses AI-supported assessment techniques to guide students toward the most suitable programmes. Curtin University Dubai provides new programmes in AI and Cybersecurity, and the University of Manchester Dubai focuses on integrating AI into its executive programs through a specialisation in Data and AI for Leaders. These initiatives embody the leading role of higher education institutions in Dubai in building a generation of innovative competencies capable of leading the knowledge economy and shaping the future.