The UAE government has announced that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be a compulsory subject in all public schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade, beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year [2, 3, 5]. This initiative aims to equip students with a strong technical understanding of AI, including data, algorithms, and its various applications [3, 6, 8].
The AI curriculum will also emphasize the ethical implications of AI, ensuring students are aware of its potential risks and societal impacts [2, 3, 5]. The curriculum is structured around seven key areas: foundational concepts, data and algorithms, software applications, ethical awareness, real-world AI use, AI innovation and project design, and AI policies and community engagement [3, 5, 8]. For the youngest learners, AI concepts will be introduced through stories, visuals, and interactive play [3, 7].
The Ministry of Education (MoE) will provide teachers with comprehensive resources, including lesson plans and activities, to support the implementation of the new curriculum [3, 7, 8, 9]. The AI subject will be integrated into the existing “Computing, Creative Design, and Innovation” subject, without requiring additional class hours [3, 7, 9]. This initiative aligns with the UAE's vision to become a global leader in AI and digital transformation, fostering a knowledge-based society and a competitive digital economy [2, 5].