UAE and Bhutan Launch Groundbreaking AI Initiative to Drive Economic Growth
In a pioneering move to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) for inclusive and sustainable development, the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bhutan have launched a joint initiative focused on leveraging AI for national progress.
The two nations co-hosted a high-level workshop titled “AI for Progress” in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Held over two days, the event brought together policymakers, technology experts, and development leaders to explore innovative, locally driven AI applications across key sectors.
The initiative centers on three priority areas:
- Empowering Entrepreneurship
- Promoting Sustainable Tourism
- Enhancing Agricultural Productivity
Bhutan was selected as the first pilot country for this initiative, recognized for its strong commitment to innovation and adoption of cost-effective, locally tailored technologies.
The workshop saw participation from top-level officials, including Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Foreign Minister Lyonpo D. N. Dhungyel. Representing the UAE, Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology Affairs, underscored the UAE’s commitment to advancing tech diplomacy and global development through AI.
Sharaf also highlighted the strong synergy between Bhutan’s digital transformation goals and the UAE’s technological expertise, laying the groundwork for a results-oriented and impactful collaboration.
This strategic partnership marks a significant step toward unlocking AI’s potential to drive economic resilience and sustainable growth in emerging economies.
