By Staff Reporter
The Dubai Finance Department has directed government entities to restrict AI-related service and consultancy contracts to companies certified with the Dubai AI Seal.
The move follows directives from H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, to strengthen transparency and governance in AI deployment across the emirate.
The directive supports the Trusted AI Companies Classification Initiative, which aims to ensure AI solutions used by the Dubai Government meet the highest standards of quality and reliability. The initiative reflects Dubai’s ambition to become a global leader in responsible artificial intelligence.
H.E. Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, said the requirement aligns public spending with Dubai’s strategic future directions and promotes the responsible use of AI.
“Requiring Dubai AI Seal certification demonstrates the government’s dedication to quality, efficiency, and innovation in technical solutions,”
he added.
H.E. Khalfan Juma Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, described the initiative as a pivotal step toward building a secure and transparent digital ecosystem. He highlighted that collaboration with DOF ensures smart solutions adopted in government operations meet the highest standards of technical governance and security.
The procedure aligns with Law No. 12 of 2020, mandating that government contracts are awarded only to licensed and registered UAE companies. All Dubai-licensed technology firms offering AI products or services are invited to apply for the AI Seal free of charge via the official portal, with evaluation based on company activities, AI expertise, ongoing projects, and public-private sector partnerships.
The move underscores ongoing efforts by DOF and the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence to strengthen AI governance, guide public spending, and advance Dubai’s vision for a knowledge-driven, innovation-focused economy.
News Source: Dubai Media Office