NEP-AI

Shaher Tayfour is an Emirati technology entrepreneur and community leader who is making a significant impact on the UAE’s digital landscape. With a strong background in artificial intelligence, data science, and software development, Tayfour has built a highly successful professional career alongside his academic pursuits in computer science.

As the Chief Executive Officer of Maharat, Shaher leads advanced AI, robotics, and self-driving systems projects across the UAE and the wider region. Under his leadership, the company provides expert AI training programs to major government departments and national entities. He also works closely with top educational and professional institutions to build and develop local AI tools and tech capabilities.

Beyond his business leadership, Shaher is deeply passionate about supporting local talent and growing the regional tech community. He serves as a UAE Coding Ambassador under the UAE National Program for Coders, where he leads the CodersHQ community. His commitment to community work is also clear in his role as a member of the Umm Al Quwain Youth Council. In this role, he collaborates with various government entities across the emirate to establish AI learning initiatives.

Shaher’s strong leadership skills are built on a solid foundation in software engineering. He previously worked as a Software Developer at the UAE AI Office, where he helped build sophisticated software projects and created communication software for teams. While working there, he also collaborated directly with global technology partners like Microsoft, Google, Nvidia, and Apple on joint initiatives and high-profile engagements.

To ensure his work always meets high standards of safety and ethics, Shaher was chosen to attend the prestigious ADIA Lab International Summer School on Safe and Trustworthy AI, a special program run alongside the University of Granada. By combining his skills in software development, business leadership, and community service, Shaher continues to play a major role in helping the UAE grow its technology sector and build a strong digital future.