UAE establishes the Federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority
Centralising AI, data and digital government under a single national body
June 22, 2026
Why should I read this?
This is a major development! The creation of the new Federal Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority as the single national body responsible for data, artificial intelligence and digital government is a significant development in the UAE’s AI and data landscape. This creates the infrastructure for the roll-out, implementation and enforcement of regulations on AI, data and digitalisation. All organisations operating in, or doing business with, the UAE should be aware of this important development and monitor for the announcement of new or amended regulations or enforcement practices.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.