The UAE Ministry of Education has announced the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a core subject across all public schools, starting from the 2025–2026 academic year.
The initiative aims to equip students from kindergarten to Grade 12 with essential AI knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world, reprots Gulf News.
The curriculum will focus on seven key areas:
- Data and algorithms
- Software applications
- Ethical awareness in AI
- Real-world AI applications
- AI-driven innovation and project design
- AI policies
- Social engagement
These modules are tailored to be age-appropriate and will be incorporated into existing school timetables without requiring extra class hours. To support the rollout, the ministry will provide teachers with comprehensive resources, including lesson plans, templates, and engaging activities adaptable to various learning environments.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Education and Human Resources Council, called the move a "strategic milestone" that aligns with the UAE’s forward-looking vision. “Integrating Artificial Intelligence into public education reflects our commitment to nurturing future generations with the tools to succeed in an increasingly complex, tech-driven world,” he said.
Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chairperson of the Council, emphasized the importance of preparing children to use AI responsibly and ethically. “As AI becomes the language of the future, introducing it in schools is a gateway to shaping the future itself,” she noted.
Minister of Education Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri highlighted that the UAE is among the first countries globally to embed AI comprehensively into the school system. She said the initiative is a practical demonstration of the government’s proactive vision and will help students not only understand AI technology but also apply it effectively and ethically.
