National Experts Program | BLOG: The NEP Experience

BLOG: The NEP Experience

A New Era of Expertise: Introducing NEP-AI
20 May 2026

On 29 January 2026, NEP launched a dedicated Artificial Intelligence track (NEP-AI) to develop a new generation of Emirati experts in one of the world’s most transformative fields.

Applications for NEP-AI topped 1,000 within a short period—highlighting the growing interest among Emirati professionals to contribute to the UAE’s leadership in AI.

The pool of talent from the applications reflects a diverse and highly skilled community, spanning technical and applied disciplines across 25 priority sectors, from AI development and product design to sector-specific innovation.

In April, NEP-AI will begin the rigorous evaluation process, where candidates are assessed based on their technical capabilities, leadership potential, and ability to translate knowledge into real-world impact. The selected cohort will embark on a structured journey combining advanced technical training, strategic mentorship, and exposure to leading global AI ecosystems.

As NEP-AI progresses into its next phase, it reflects a broader national commitment to investing in future-ready talent—positioning Emirati experts at the forefront of innovation and reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global hub for artificial intelligence.