UAE Makes Artificial Intelligence a Mandatory Subject in Schools

In a landmark decision, the UAE Cabinet has approved a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum as a mandatory subject across all levels of government education—from kindergarten to Grade 12—starting from the upcoming academic year. The initiative is part of the country’s long-term education and digital transformation strategy, aiming to prepare students for a tech-driven future.

National Vision for AI in Education

The announcement was made by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who emphasised that this move aligns with the nation's strategic goal of equipping its youth with future-ready skills.

The Ministry of Education has developed a curriculum that not only teaches students the technical foundations of AI, including algorithms, data science, and machine learning, but also emphasises ethical awareness, AI law, and societal impact—ensuring a holistic understanding of the technology.

What the AI Curriculum Will Cover

• Basics of Artificial Intelligence from an early age

• Technical aspects: algorithms, data structures, coding, robotics

• Real-world applications: healthcare, finance, education, security

• Ethical and legal issues: responsible AI use, bias, and privacy

• Connection between AI and society, fostering critical thinking

This initiative makes the UAE one of the first countries globally to formally integrate AI education at all school levels through its national curriculum, reflecting its commitment to AI policy, innovation, and legal readiness in the digital era.

Legal Significance of AI Education

By embedding AI literacy into its education policy, the UAE is not only fostering future innovators but also laying the groundwork for legal frameworks and regulatory compliance. Educating students on AI ethics and laws from an early stage supports responsible development and aligns with the UAE’s broader AI governance and cybersecurity laws.

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