UAE creates federal AI and Data Authority to centralize oversight and digital government

The United Arab Emirates has created a new federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority to bring AI oversight, data governance, and digital government functions under one national body reporting directly to the Cabinet. Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on June 14, the authority consolidates the country’s AI office, the digital government function at the TDRA, and the Emirates Data Office. The move is intended to unify policy, improve coordination across federal agencies, and speed up AI-driven public services and digital transformation. It also reflects the UAE’s broader push to strengthen its role as a regional leader in AI and data regulation.