The Q1 2026 findings place the UAE at 70.1%, a Global First at the top of the global AI adoption index for the third consecutive time, with adoption growing at nearly four times the worldwide average.

08 May 2026; United Arab Emirates: The United Arab Emirates’ continued progress in AI adoption reflects sustained, long-term investment in digital infrastructure, skills, and governance. New findings from Microsoft’s AI Diffusion Report for Q1 2026 indicate that AI usage has become increasingly embedded in how people across the country work and learn, supported by foundations designed for resilience, operational continuity, and responsible growth. AI adoption in the UAE has risen steadily, increasing from 59.4% to 64% and now reaching 70.1% in the latest findings.

The report, published by the Microsoft AI Economy Institute using aggregated and anonymised telemetry across more than 100 markets, places AI adoption in the UAE at 70.1% of the working-age population, making it the first economy in the world to cross the 70% mark. This positions the country among the most advanced globally and reflects a rate of uptake that continues to outpace the global average, which stands at 17.8%, underlining the impact of consistent national focus on digital capability and ecosystem development.

Kamel to succeed Naim Yazbeck, who will assume the role of President of Middle East & Africa at Microsoft

July 7, 2025; Dubai, UAE – Microsoft is pleased to announce the appointment of Amr Kamel as General Manager, UAE, effective July 1, 2025.

Amr Kamel

A respected and seasoned executive with nearly 20 years of experience at Microsoft, Kamel brings deep regional expertise, strategic acumen, and a strong track record of delivering business transformation and innovation at scale. In his new role, he will lead Microsoft’s efforts to support the UAE’s national digital and AI priorities, foster sustainable economic growth, and empower customers, partners, and developers to realize the full potential of cloud and Artificial Intelligence.