Global technology group e& and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have announced a landmark initiative to address the growing demand for artificial intelligence expertise in the UAE. Unveiled at GITEX Global in Dubai, the “AI Nation – Afaaq” programme aims to train 30,000 individuals across the nation in critical AI and machine learning (ML) skills, marking a significant step in developing a future-ready workforce.
A Strategic Alliance to Bridge the AI Skills Gap
The “AI Nation – Afaaq” programme is a key outcome of the US$1 billion strategic alliance established between e& and AWS in 2024. The initiative directly confronts a critical challenge highlighted in a 2024 IDC report, which found that while 88% of organisations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia recognise AI’s business impact, 46% of UAE firms cite a shortage of skilled professionals as a primary barrier to implementation. Through this collaboration, e& will leverage its e& Academy to deliver the AWS-powered training, combining global cloud expertise with deep local market understanding.
Harrison Lung, Group Chief Strategy Officer at e&, commented on the partnership, stating, “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to developing the next generation of talents that will drive the UAE’s innovation and leadership in the global digital economy. By combining AWS’s global training excellence with our local expertise and established presence, we are ensuring that learners across the country have access to the tools and support needed to succeed in the era of cloud and AI.”
Empowering the UAE’s Knowledge-Based Economy
By tackling the AI skills deficit head-on, the programme is strategically aligned with the UAE’s ambitious national goals, particularly the UAE Centennial 2071 plan. This long-term vision aims to build a diversified, knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and advanced technology. The initiative will create a large-scale talent pipeline equipped with high-demand skills, positioning the UAE to attract further investment and solidify its role as a leading global technology hub.
“This initiative represents AWS’s deep commitment to making world-class digital skills training accessible across the UAE,” said Madhavi Reddy, Managing Director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey at AWS. “By providing 30,000 learners with industry-recognized certifications in cloud and AI, we are helping to build the robust talent base required for the nation’s digital transformation journey.”
Comprehensive Training and Certification
The programme provides a comprehensive learning pathway for participants. AWS will supply 30,000 sponsored vouchers for its industry-recognised certifications, including 25,000 for the foundational AWS Certified AI Practitioner and 5,000 for the more advanced AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate. Learners will gain free access to digital, self-paced training materials on AWS Skill Builder and receive support through live, interactive ‘Cloud Coach’ sessions designed to prepare them for certification exams.
About AI Nation – Afaaq
AI Nation – Afaaq is a nationwide digital skills programme launched by e& and Amazon Web Services (AWS) in the UAE. The initiative aims to train and certify 30,000 individuals in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), providing them with sponsored certification vouchers, self-paced learning content, and live coaching to foster a highly skilled talent pool for the country’s digital economy.
Source: Fintech News AE
