abu dhabi, The UAE National Expert Program’s AI track has received more than 1,000 applications in less than two months since applications opened on January 29 and closed on March 24, underscoring the growing determination of Emirati talent to lead in the field of artificial intelligence.
The figures reflect growing interest among Emirati professionals working on a range of AI areas, from core technology and product development to new applications across national sectors.
Participants will be selected through a structured evaluation process based on their academic and professional excellence, leadership potential, and ability to translate their expertise into practical impact within the national sector. The final selection results will be announced in May.
The first NEP-AI cohort will begin in May 2026 and run through December 2026, with participants taking a rigorous series of modules that build both technical and leadership excellence in artificial intelligence.
NEP-AI is aligned with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and will contribute to the country’s efforts to expand the country’s expertise in advanced technologies.
The AI track focuses on strengthening national capabilities in artificial intelligence and developing a new generation of Emirati AI leaders, building on the National Expert Program launched in 2019 to develop Emirati experts across priority areas.
The program is structured around six tracks, spanning 25 areas to ensure alignment between participants’ expertise and national priorities.
NEP-AI participants are supported by two levels of mentorship. The first is comprised of senior mentors, ministers, CEOs, and senior leaders from government and the private sector, providing strategic guidance and a national perspective. The second is an AI technical lead who serves as a dedicated advisor to participants’ Capstone projects, providing technical direction and applied feedback to enhance both project outcomes and professional growth.
Participants will also participate in targeted international research visits designed to provide exposure to the world’s leading AI institutions, applied models, and governance approaches directly relevant to their subject area.
