UAE to Introduce AI Education from Kindergarten to Grade 12

The UAE will become one of the first countries to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its national school curriculum, with mandatory AI classes for all government school students—from kindergarten to Grade 12—starting next academic year, Arab News reported.

Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid announced the initiative on X, emphasizing the dual focus on technical proficiency and ethical awareness. “Our goal is to teach children a deep understanding of AI while preparing them for a future unlike our present,” he stated.

The curriculum, approved by the UAE Cabinet, spans seven key areas: foundational concepts, data algorithms, software tools, ethics, real-world applications, innovation projects, and policy engagement. Education Minister Sarah Al-Amiri described the move as aligning with the UAE’s “future-focused vision,” per state media WAM.

The program aims to equip students with age-appropriate AI literacy, positioning the UAE as a pioneer in AI education. The announcement follows the country’s broader strategy to lead in emerging technologies, including its National AI Strategy 2031.