UAE Makes AI Education Mandatory in Government Schools

The United Arab Emirates has announced a landmark decision to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a mandatory subject across all government schools, from kindergarten through Grade 12, starting in the 2025–2026 academic year.

This initiative, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the UAE Cabinet, marks the UAE as one of the first countries globally to implement such a comprehensive, nationwide AI curriculum at all educational levels.

• The curriculum is structured in age-appropriate modules, with younger students engaging through interactive activities and older students tackling more advanced concepts, including designing AI systems and addressing real-world scenarios.
• AI will be taught as part of the existing Computing, Creative Design, and Innovation subject, and will not require additional class time.
• Designated teachers, supported by comprehensive guides and lesson plans from the Ministry of Education, will deliver the lessons

Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that the move is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to prepare future generations for a rapidly evolving technological world, stating:

“Our responsibility is to equip our children for a time unlike ours, with new skills and capabilities that ensure the continued momentum of development and progress in our nation for decades to come.”

The comprehensive AI curriculum will cover fundamental concepts such as data, algorithms, machine learning, and practical applications, alongside an exploration of the societal impacts of AI. Importantly, the program also addresses critical ethical considerations, including data privacy and algorithmic fairness, ensuring students develop a balanced understanding of AI’s benefits and challenges.

The curriculum is designed to be age-appropriate, with interactive activities for younger students and more advanced content for older learners, seamlessly integrated into existing subjects like Computing, Creative Design, and Innovation without requiring additional class hours.

Core topics include:

• Data, algorithms, and software applications
• Machine learning and real-world AI applications
• Societal impacts of AI, including risks and benefits
• Ethical considerations, data privacy, and algorithmic fairness

The Ministry of Education will oversee the rollout of the curriculum, providing teachers with resources and training to ensure effective delivery. This move builds on the UAE’s ongoing efforts to modernise education and align it with the demands of the digital economy.

Experts believe that the UAE’s model could inspire other nations seeking to integrate AI into their school systems, making the country a pioneer in preparing young learners for the future of technology.