The AI Academy has opened early applications for UAE’s first Executive Program for Chief AI Officer (CAIO), scheduled to begin on 16 November 2025. The two-week course, launched in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) and Polynome AI Academy, will take place in Abu Dhabi and is designed to equip senior executives and decision-makers with the expertise to lead artificial intelligence transformation across the Middle East.

Unveiled at the Machines Can See 2025 summit in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the initiative addresses growing demand for AI leadership as 69% of organisations in the Middle East plan to increase investment in AI. The programme also aligns with the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, which aims to add over US$96 billion to the country’s GDP through AI-driven growth.

The intensive curriculum includes 10 advanced modules covering AI systems architecture, enterprise deployment, governance, ethics, and public policy. Participants can also opt for a five-day international extension in Europe or the United States to gain exposure to leading global innovation ecosystems.

“In today’s fast-changing landscape, visionary and strategic leadership is critical to unlocking the full potential of AI in a responsible way that meets the needs of businesses and society alike,” said Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ADSM.

The programme is distinctive for its integration of world-class academics and industry leaders. Faculty members include professors from Oxford University, ETH Zurich, Carnegie Mellon, and Khalifa University, alongside executives from NVIDIA, G42, the UAE Cybersecurity Council, NASA JPL, Mubadala, and more.

Alexander Khanin, Founder of Polynome Group, added: “Participants will leave with execution-ready strategies, direct access to enterprise tools, and membership in a powerful peer network of global AI leaders.”

Applications are open until 15 October 2025. The course is aimed at C-suite leaders, public sector advisors, strategy and transformation heads, and senior digital executives across the private and government sectors.