UAE and Lebanon Launch ‘One Million Lebanese AI Experts’ Initiative
Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Lebanon's Prime Minister Dr Nawaf Salam at the UN General Assembly to announce a transformative digital skills programme aimed at equipping Lebanese citizens with artificial intelligence expertise.
During a bilateral meeting at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of the Lebanese Republic, announced a landmark partnership to advance digital capabilities across Lebanon.
The discussion focused on strengthening the fraternal relations between the UAE and Lebanon, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. The two leaders also exchanged perspectives on regional matters of mutual concern and reviewed items on the UN General Assembly’s agenda.
Building Digital Expertise Through Partnership
The centrepiece of the meeting was the launch of the “One Million Lebanese AI Experts” initiative, delivered under the Government Experience Exchange Programme in collaboration with the Lebanese government. This ambitious programme reflects the shared vision of both nations to expand knowledge exchange and foster technological advancement.
The initiative addresses the critical need for digital literacy in an increasingly technology-driven world. Participants will acquire fundamental and practical skills in generative artificial intelligence and prompt engineering—the art of formulating precise instructions to guide AI tools toward accurate and effective outcomes. This technical proficiency enables individuals and organisations to harness AI applications to enhance productivity, streamline workflows and develop innovative solutions.
Inclusive and Transformative Reach
Notably, the programme is designed with inclusivity at its heart, welcoming participants of all ages, backgrounds and professional roles across Lebanese society. This broad-based approach aims to accelerate digital transformation at a societal level, ensuring that technological advancement benefits diverse communities and strengthens institutional capacity throughout the country.
The initiative forms part of the broader GEEP framework, which facilitates the sharing of UAE expertise and experience to build practical partnerships supporting institutional and human development in partner nations. By investing in future skills and advanced technologies, the programme underscores both governments’ dedication to fostering innovation and prosperity.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed emphasised the UAE’s steadfast commitment to supporting Lebanon’s development aspirations and its efforts to establish lasting security and stability. The meeting was attended by senior UAE officials including Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and other government representatives.
Source: WAM