UAE establishes the Federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority

What do I need to know about the UAE’s AI and Data Authority?

The Authority will absorb the roles of: (i) the Office of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications; (ii) the Digital Government Sector at the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority; and (iii) the UAE Data Office. This consolidation signals an intention to deliver an integrated approach to data, digitalisation and AI. It will be chaired by the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Omar Sultan Al Olama, and will report directly to the Cabinet. The Authority will lead the national strategy for data, AI and digital government, propose policies, legislation, strategies and programmes.

The establishment of the Authority is more than a restructuring exercise; it is also a significant development for personal data protection in the UAE. Although the Data Office was formally established under Federal Law No. 44 of 2021, it has not yet become fully operational. The creation of the new Authority may therefore accelerate long-awaited developments in this space, including the issuance of the implementing regulations under the federal data protection law, further regulatory guidance and the commencement of enforcement activity.

What should I do?

• adopt a readiness plan for adapting your AI and data governance frameworks to cater for the potential roll-out of new regulations
• monitor for further announcements or developments following the Authority’s establishment
• monitor for announcements relating to enforcement activities
• if in doubt, seek advice

Eversheds Sutherland is well placed to support you in navigating these developments and assessing their practical impact on your data protection, AI and digital governance obligations in the UAE.