Voices from the AI Campus | United Arab Emirates #2

When she first enrolled in the Government AI Campus, Meera Alshamsi was already so interested in AI she was pursuing a Master’s degree in the subject. Meera is a Data Governance and Analysis Analyst in the UAE government, where she focuses on ways to use AI and data to improve public service delivery. 

Some of the questions she is exploring in her role include how to use AI and data in smart, structured ways to support strategic planning and reporting. Meera was looking to find solutions to common challenges around AI in government, like untangling new terms and connecting academic theory to practical application.

To get answers to these questions, Meera enrolled on the Understand How AI Impacts You and Your Government course through the Government AI Campus, in addition to her Master’s studies. The course introduces AI, what it can and can’t do, and its main benefits and risks in a public sector context.

The online course helped bridge the gaps Meera had identified. It clarified concepts and grounded AI in real-world examples, such as Dubai Health’s use of AI to detect diabetes. Meera particularly appreciated how the course made AI accessible to everyone.

“The course was very useful. It broke down AI in a simple and clear way, which is important because many still assume AI is just about chatbots, when it’s actually much broader and more impactful.”

This boosted her confidence when talking about AI with non-technical colleagues.

“It made me more confident when talking about AI. I learned how to explain it in a way anyone can understand.”

One insight in particular left a lasting impression: the importance of starting with a challenge or a clear vision, not a tool. Meera is carrying this approach forward into her work.

“That idea really matters for everyone. Most of the time, we jump straight into using the newest tools — thinking that’s what we need. But honestly, we need to flip that mindset. We should always start with the challenge or the thing we’re trying to improve, then decide which AI tool fits best.”

For Meera, foundational AI training like this is essential for supporting national priorities, including the UAE’s ambitious AI strategy and digital transformation goals.

“This course helped me connect AI to the UAE digital transformation goal and to our organisation's vision. So now I'm looking for the area where AI can boost our work, support decision-making and improve services. But… always in a safe and fair and responsible way as the course mentioned.”