The AI Academy has opened early applications for its Executive Program for Chief AI Officer (CAIO), a pioneering initiative aimed at equipping senior executives with the skills and vision to drive the next wave of artificial intelligence transformation in the region. Applications are open until October 15, 2025.
The Academy was first introduced at the Machines Can See 2025 summit, attended by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.
The program, described as the first of its kind in the Middle East, responds to research showing that 69% of organizations in the region plan to increase AI investment, highlighting the growing demand for leadership capable of navigating complex AI strategies.
The initiative is launched through a strategic collaboration between the Abu Dhabi School of Management (ADSM) and Polynome AI Academy, reflecting the UAE’s ambition to become a global hub for AI adoption, governance, and innovation.
Set to begin on November 16, 2025, the intensive two-week program features 10 advanced modules covering AI systems architecture, enterprise deployment, governance frameworks, ethics, and public policy. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application, preparing participants to lead cross-functional AI strategies and drive innovation agendas across the MENA region. Additionally, executives have the option to join a five-day international module in Europe or the United States, gaining exposure to leading global innovation ecosystems.
The program integrates NVIDIA’s AI expertise and technology, ensuring participants gain hands-on experience with enterprise-grade AI infrastructure. Polynome Group highlights that graduates will acquire “execution-ready strategies, direct access to enterprise tools, and membership in a powerful peer network of global AI leaders.”
“In today’s fast-changing landscape, visionary and strategic leadership is critical to unlocking the full potential of AI in a responsible way that meets the needs of businesses and society alike,” said Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at ADSM. “This program equips leaders with the strategic foresight, ethical foundation, and practical skills required to leverage the exciting opportunities AI creates, while strengthening the UAE’s role as a global hub for technological excellence.”
Designed by practitioners who have implemented AI at scale, the program brings together global experts from academia, government, and industry.
Faculty includes professors and researchers from institutions such as Oxford University, ETH Zurich, Khalifa University, and Carnegie Mellon University. Industry leaders from NVIDIA, the UAE Cybersecurity Council, G42, NASA JPL, Mubadala, AMD, e&, and HCLTech contribute insights on AI strategy, deployment, and governance.
Graduates will join an exclusive global alumni network of Chief AI Officers and senior executives, providing lifelong access to peers shaping the next decade of AI innovation across industries and geographies. The program targets C-suite leaders, public sector advisors, senior strategy and digital executives, and AI sponsors in both government and private sectors.
The Executive Program for Chief AI Officer supports the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 and the broader UAE 2031 Vision, which aim to position the country at the forefront of AI and technological leadership.
The AI economy is projected to contribute over USD 96 billion to the UAE’s GDP by 2031, underscoring the program’s strategic significance.