Emirates Development Bank (EDB) has introduced its internal AI Wave programme, designed to enhance AI literacy and promote the adoption of artificial intelligence across the organisation.
In alignment with the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, the programme aims to support the nation’s ambition to be a global leader in AI innovation while improving government efficiency by seamlessly integrating AI into banking services.
As a federal entity, EDB is dedicated to encouraging the adoption of AI through a thorough educational and awareness campaign. This initiative spans all departments within the Bank, providing employees with knowledge and understanding of AI technologies alongside international best practices.
By fostering AI awareness and insights from the leadership downwards, EDB seeks to contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s digital transformation goals, ensuring its workforce is equipped to innovate, improve decision-making, and optimise operations aligned with the country’s strategic vision.
Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, commented in the Emirates News Agency article, “As the UAE’s development bank, we are committed to playing a pivotal role in the country’s economic transformation. Supporting the UAE’s goal to become a global leader in AI is not just about technology adoption but about embedding AI into our operations strategically to drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth.”
“The AI Wave programme exemplifies our dedication to this vision, enabling us to set new standards for government excellence. We see a future where AI-powered insights shape our decision-making, optimise our services, and ultimately contribute to a stronger, more resilient, and technologically advanced national economy,” Al Naqbi added.
In line with the UAE Government’s commitment to harnessing AI for service transformation, the AI Wave programme significantly emphasises strategic partnerships to drive impactful AI initiatives. This approach seeks to accelerate the integration of AI across all areas of EDB, enhancing both efficiency and innovation.
Abeer Al Sumaiti, EDB’s Chief Human Resources Officer, added, “The AI Wave programme is crucial in embedding AI throughout the organisation, creating a workforce that is well-equipped with AI knowledge and ready to drive innovation at all levels. This top-down approach ensures that AI becomes integral to EDB’s culture, fostering agility, resilience, and forward-thinking.”
The programme launched with knowledge-sharing sessions, beginning with a presentation by Irina Petrakova-Otto, Microsoft’s Chief Technology Officer of Private Capital and AI. She provided EDB’s executive team with critical insights into AI’s transformative potential within the banking sector, exploring its various applications across departments.
The second session was delivered by Martin Hayward, a partner from the international law firm Pinsent Masons. He focused on the practicalities of AI implementation, covering essential topics such as data management, model development, and ethical considerations, equipping EDB employees with the tools to leverage AI effectively.
The AI Wave programme will continue with interactive workshops, seminars, and hands-on training sessions, ensuring EDB’s workforce remains at the forefront of AI developments. This will empower the bank to drive innovation and transformation, benefiting the organisation and the UAE.
