Dubai just ranked second in the world for AI adoption

Dubai has added another impressive global ranking to its list, taking second place worldwide in the Intelligent Cities Index by Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The study, which looked at 61 cities across 39 countries, recognised Dubai’s growing use of AI and advanced technology to make everyday life easier, from improving government services to doing business in the city. The index looks at how effectively cities are using digital technology and AI to make a real difference to residents and businesses. It assessed the cities on areas spanning technology adoption, strategy and outcomes, measuring how well each city is using innovation to support growth and improve everyday life. His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Digital Dubai, credited the achievement to Dubai’s wise leadership. This includes a landmark move by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who announced a digital reform across the public sector earlier in April 2026. * Sheikh Mohammed reveals bold new phase of UAE’s AI-driven government plans * Al Mansoori stated, ‘Dubai’s achievement is the result of an integrated digital ecosystem built on data, shared digital infrastructure, and close collaboration across government entities and all economy sectors’. Al Mansoori also stated that Dubai will continue to invest in a shared digital infrastructure while expanding the use of data and AI across all sectors. The report claimed that cities putting AI at the heart of how they operate are seeing better results – from improved services and quality of life to higher resident satisfaction. The world’s leading AI cities are also increasingly using the technology in practical, everyday ways. The report also found that people who regularly use generative AI tools tend to have greater confidence in the technology and a more positive outlook on its future, with Dubai and other Middle Eastern cities showing particularly strong enthusiasm for AI adoption.