February 23, 2026
Methodology About Newsletter
WE THE UAE 2031
The Vanderbilt Terminal for the UAE's National Transformation
INDEPENDENT GLOBAL INTELLIGENCE FOR THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
UAE GDP: AED 2.03T ▲ 5.7% | Non-Oil GDP Share: 84.3% ▼ -5.2pp | FDI Inflows: $45.6B ▲ 48.7% | GDP Growth: 4.0% ▲ -0.3pp vs 2023 | Inflation: 1.7% ▼ +0.0pp vs 2023 | Female Participation: 55.1% ▲ +0.6pp vs 2023 | Population: 11.0M ▲ 4.8% | Emiratisation Rate: 12.5% ▲ 2.1pp | Global Competitiveness: #7 ▲ 3 places | Clean Energy Capacity: 7.2 GW ▲ 18.4% | ADX Index: 9,842 ▲ 4.7% | DFM Index: 4,621 ▲ 6.2% | UAE GDP: AED 2.03T ▲ 5.7% | Non-Oil GDP Share: 84.3% ▼ -5.2pp | FDI Inflows: $45.6B ▲ 48.7% | GDP Growth: 4.0% ▲ -0.3pp vs 2023 | Inflation: 1.7% ▼ +0.0pp vs 2023 | Female Participation: 55.1% ▲ +0.6pp vs 2023 | Population: 11.0M ▲ 4.8% | Emiratisation Rate: 12.5% ▲ 2.1pp | Global Competitiveness: #7 ▲ 3 places | Clean Energy Capacity: 7.2 GW ▲ 18.4% | ADX Index: 9,842 ▲ 4.7% | DFM Index: 4,621 ▲ 6.2% |

Definition

EdTech (educational technology) refers to the application of digital tools, platforms, and methodologies to improve educational outcomes. The sector includes learning management systems (LMS), AI-powered adaptive learning, virtual classrooms, gamified education platforms, digital assessment tools, and immersive technologies such as virtual and augmented reality for instruction. EdTech aims to personalize learning experiences, expand access to education, and equip students with skills required for knowledge-based economies.

UAE Context

The UAE has invested heavily in EdTech as part of its commitment to building a knowledge-based economy. Alef Education, an Abu Dhabi-based company, has developed an AI-powered learning platform deployed across hundreds of public schools in the UAE. The Mohammed bin Rashid Smart Learning Program provides devices and digital content to students across Dubai’s public schools. UAE universities including Khalifa University, NYUAD, and MBZUAI integrate advanced technology into instruction and research. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated EdTech adoption, with the UAE achieving rapid transition to online learning. The National Program for Coders and initiatives promoting STEM education reinforce the country’s focus on technology-enabled human capital development.

Key Data

  • Key platforms: Alef Education (AI-powered learning in public schools)
  • Government programs: Mohammed bin Rashid Smart Learning Program
  • Higher education: MBZUAI, Khalifa University, NYUAD digital programs
  • Coding initiative: National Program for Coders targeting 100,000 coders
  • Focus areas: AI-adaptive learning, STEM, digital literacy, vocational training

Significance for Vision 2031

EdTech is critical to the UAE’s Vision 2031 human capital development goals. The national agenda requires a workforce skilled in technology, data science, AI, and innovation. EdTech platforms enable personalized, scalable education that prepares Emirati citizens and residents for knowledge-economy careers. Investment in EdTech also supports the UAE’s goal of becoming a global education destination.

  • AI Strategy - AI-powered educational innovation
  • Smart City - Digital infrastructure supporting smart campuses
  • Sharjah - The UAE’s education and cultural hub
  • Emiratisation - National workforce development program