e& has launched its AI Academy as part of its commitment to prepare its workforce for the future of work. This initiative reflects a strategic investment in talent aimed at future-proofing both the company and the broader ecosystem it serves. The AI Academy is designed to equip employees with the skills necessary to understand and engage with artificial intelligence (AI) technology effectively.

The UAE recently announced the integration of AI as a core subject in all government schools, from kindergarten through grade 12, underscoring the importance of AI literacy. As algorithms increasingly influence various sectors, including public policy and productivity, there is a critical need for individuals to not only adopt these technologies but also to engage with them on multiple levels—technical, ethical, and strategic.

Ali Al Mansoori, e&’s group chief people officer, emphasized that building a workforce ready for AI requires a cultural shift and a strong commitment to continuous learning. He stated, “Our growth strategy is rooted in digitising and transforming operations, but more than that, it’s about infusing AI into every facet of the business.” e& aims to enhance financial performance, revolutionize customer experiences, and accelerate productivity through AI.

The AI Academy is a central element of e&’s broader training strategy, which includes various programs such as the AI Graduate Programme, Excelerate&, and early-career initiatives like Bidayati. Each of these programs is designed to meet the evolving demands of the workplace, ensuring that employees at all levels are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, AI and related technologies are expected to create 170 million jobs this decade, despite displacing 92 million. The net effect is positive, but it requires organizations to take proactive steps to reskill and reorient their workforces.

The AI Academy is critical in facilitating this transformation, providing structured training that embeds AI capabilities across the organization. It offers foundational training for all employees, hands-on support for day-to-day tasks, and advanced technical training through the Builders Programme.

While e& is committed to developing AI skills, it also recognizes that there is skepticism regarding AI’s benefits among employees. Research from the University of Melbourne and KPMG found that while two-thirds of respondents use AI, only 46 percent trust these systems. Al Mansoori highlighted the importance of addressing both the skills gap and the trust gap, stating, “As AI adoption accelerates, building capabilities at scale means fostering both technical proficiency and organisational trust in equal measure.”

The AI Academy aims to build trust in AI by providing structured, hands-on learning tailored to various roles. It encompasses self-paced foundational courses for new employees and executive workshops focused on strategy and application. Measurable outcomes are central to the Academy’s mission, ensuring that employees gain confidence in using AI tools and understanding their risks and implications.

The Academy’s educational approach transforms knowledge into actionable capabilities, with a focus on improving productivity and developing leaders who can effectively communicate AI strategies. Al Mansoori pointed out that investing in AI training enhances employee development and satisfaction, reinforcing a culture of innovation and lifelong learning.

In addition to training its own workforce, e& has expanded the AI Academy to benefit external partners and clients through the e& enterprise AI Academy. This includes the Chief AI Officer Programme, aimed at C-level executives and designed in partnership with institutions such as Northwestern Kellogg and Emeritus.

With forecasts from PwC indicating AI-driven annual growth of up to 34 percent in the Middle East and a projected economic impact of $320 billion by 2030, readiness for AI is increasingly urgent. PwC’s survey also revealed that 56 percent of CEOs report improved efficiencies from AI, while a third have seen revenue gains.

e& is laying the groundwork today for a future where AI plays a central role. The AI Academy, along with other strategic initiatives, is a testament to the company’s dedication to fostering AI fluency throughout its workforce. This approach aligns with the UAE’s AI Strategy 2031, which aims to position the nation as a leader in AI while talking about the importance of talent readiness and cultural acceptance.

Al Mansoori concluded by stressing that developing technical skills is only part of the equation. He stated, “Upskilling should also encompass training on the ethical implications and responsible use of AI.” In a rapidly evolving region, the success of AI initiatives will depend not only on technological advancement but also on building a human-centered, future-ready workforce.