The UAE’s First Chief AI Officer Training for Executives

Companies around the world are appointing Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) to navigate the complexities of AI deployment, regulatory compliance and competitive advantage. 

This executive role has emerged as an infrastructure in the AI economy, with demand outstripping the supply of qualified candidates who can bridge technical expertise with strategic business acumen.

In response, the UAE has launched the region’s first executive training programme for CAIOs, responding to surging demand for senior AI leadership as Middle Eastern organisations ramp up AI investments.

Inside the AI Academy programme

The AI Academy programme is a collaboration between Abu Dhabi School of Management and Dubai-based AI solutions provider Polynome AI Academy. 

It will prepare executives to oversee enterprise AI deployments and governance frameworks at a time when research shows 69% of Middle Eastern organisations plan to boost AI spending.

The two-week intensive programme begins on 16 November 2025, targeting C-suite executives including CAIOs, Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) and senior digital transformation leads. 

These roles have become increasingly crucial as organisations recognise the need for dedicated AI leadership rather than simply adding AI responsibilities to existing technology positions.

Nvidia’s role in the partnership 

The programme integrates expertise from graphics processing unit (GPU) manufacturer Nvidia, which provides the semiconductor chips that power most AI systems. 

As a result, this partnership aims to accelerate practical AI deployment capabilities across the Middle East and North Africa region.

“What makes this programme unique is that it was designed by leaders who have implemented AI at scale,” says Alexander Khanin, Founder of Polynome Group. 

"Participants will leave with execution-ready strategies, direct access to enterprise tools and membership in a powerful peer network of global AI leaders.”

The curriculum spans 10 modules covering AI systems architecture, enterprise deployment strategies and governance frameworks. 

Enterprise deployment involves implementing AI systems across large organisations, while governance frameworks establish rules for responsible AI use. 

Participants can extend their learning through an optional five-day international module in Europe or the US.

The programme directly supports the UAE’s AI Strategy 2031, which targets positioning the country as a global AI leader. 

Government projections estimate AI could contribute over US$96bn to the UAE’s gross domestic product by 2031. 

Federal and Dubai government entities have already appointed (CAIOs), signalling the strategic importance of these roles.

The power of academia in industry practice

The programme draws instructors from Oxford University, ETH Zurich and Carnegie Mellon University, alongside regional institutions including Khalifa University.

Industry practitioners include executives from Nvidia, AMD, telecommunications provider e&, AI company G42 and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

This blend addresses the gap between theoretical AI knowledge and the practical implementation challenges organisations face when deploying AI systems at scale.

“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,” says Dr Tayeb Kamali, Chairman of the board of trustees at Abu Dhabi School of Management.

Abu Dhabi School of Management, established in 2011, holds accreditation from the Commission of Academic Accreditation and maintains partnerships with over 20 global institutions. 

Polynome Group specialises in enterprise AI infrastructure and holds certification as the only Nvidia Solution Advisor in the UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council region.

Graduates will join an alumni network of CAIOs and senior leaders, creating ongoing professional connections across the AI industry. 

Dr Kamali says the programme “equips leaders with the strategic foresight, ethical foundation and practical skills required to leverage the exciting opportunities AI creates, while strengthening the UAE’s role as a global hub for technological excellence.”