UAE strengthens position as global hub for smart and sustainable tourism

The United Arab Emirates continues to reinforce its position as a leading global tourism destination by actively integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into the sector, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), a partner of TV BRICS.

The UAE was among the first countries in the region to implement large-scale digital solutions, supported by advanced infrastructure and extensive fibre-optic networks, the source reports. These foundations have enabled the widespread use of smart technologies across tourism, transport and hospitality services, improving efficiency and service quality.

Within the framework of smart tourism infrastructure, Abu Dhabi is working toward becoming the world’s first government fully powered by artificial intelligence by 2027. The emirate plans to automate 100 per cent of government operations, supported by US$3.53 billion in digital infrastructure investment under the Abu Dhabi Digital Government Strategy 2025–2027.

At the national level, the UAE is investing in AI skills development. The UAE has launched the "AI for All" initiative, a nationwide training programme running throughout 2026. The initiative aims to equip people of all ages and professions with essential AI skills, supporting productivity and the digital economy.

Digital innovation is transforming the hospitality sector. In Dubai, a citywide biometric hotel registration system allows guests to complete check-in via smartphone, significantly speeding up arrival procedures, especially for returning visitors.

The source states that digital transformation is a core element of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which prioritises innovation, sustainability and future-ready infrastructure.

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