How Du’s vision for sovereign cloud and AI will transform UAE’s digital governance

Du, one of the largest telecommunications operators in the Middle East, is deploying Oracle Alloy to offer cloud and sovereign AI services to business, government, and public sector organizations in the UAE. By partnering with Oracle, Du is set to enhance sovereign cloud and AI capabilities for the government and public sector entities, specifically targeting Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both Du and the UAE’s digital vision, which is focused on integrating cutting-edge technology into every aspect of governance and public service. For Du, this investment in Oracle’s sovereign cloud infrastructure is a strategic move to ensure that the UAE’s public sector embraces AI and cloud services within a framework that upholds data sovereignty and national security.

Jasim Al Awadi, Chief ICT Officer at Du highlighted the importance of this partnership, emphasizing how it aligns with the UAE’s long-term goals for digital governance. According to Al Awadi: “The UAE’s ICT sector is not only advanced within the region but also competes on a global scale. The country’s continued push for digital innovation has led to the creation of specialized departments and initiatives on cloud, AI, and emerging technologies. Investing in ICT was key for us. We see huge potential in the UAE’s ICT market, and we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”

The introduction of Oracle Alloy into the UAE’s public sector is part of Du’s broader strategy to address the growing demand for sovereign AI services. The potential benefits of sovereign AI for the UAE’s public sector are substantial. In particular, AI’s integration into government services will streamline and improve efficiencies across multiple sectors. Al Awadi points to several key areas where AI will have an immediate impact, such as client-facing channels like chatbots, call center analytics, and other AI-powered tools that will enhance customer service and public interaction. These technologies are expected to improve service delivery and ensure that citizens receive faster, more personalized assistance from government entities.

However, with the rapid adoption of AI and cloud technologies, concerns over security and data privacy are paramount. Du has made it clear that security is their top priority, particularly when dealing with government data. As Al Awadi explained, Du operates its own data centers, giving the company full control over its cloud infrastructure and ensuring it complies with all UAE national laws regarding data sovereignty. “We are getting all the necessary approvals to provide a secured infraestructure,” he added.

Looking toward the future, Al Awadi sees AI playing a pivotal role in the continued evolution of the UAE’s public sector. He believes that AI’s integration will not only improve existing services but also pave the way for new innovations that will reshape how the government interacts with its citizens. “AI is big in the UAE. The leadership has embraced AI, and it’s reflected in the initiatives that are being worked on across various federal and governmental entities,” Al Awadi said.

The UAE’s vision for digital governance is ambitious, and with partners like Oracle, Du is well-positioned to lead the charge. Through strategic investments in sovereign cloud and AI, the UAE is not only enhancing its government services but also setting the stage for a future where digital innovation is at the heart of governance, national security, and economic development.