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Empowering decision-makers for the AI era

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer optional but essential, the Global AI Leadership Program stands as your gateway to harnessing the world’s most transformative technology since the industrial revolution.

Designed for senior executives and decision-makers, the program balances theoretical knowledge with practical frameworks to drive AI initiatives. You will depart with actionable insights into AI’s competitive advantages and the executive capabilities needed to orchestrate successful AI transformation.

The program offers two study modes – a week-long edition over five consecutive days and a weekend edition (held over two months, every second Saturday) – following the same curriculum and expert instructors.

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Week-long edition
This intensive week-long program brings together global executives from diverse industries and regions who prefer to learn in a single five-day period. It offers essential AI knowledge through hands-on learning and site visits to pioneering organizations.

Program details
Tuition fees AED 45,000
Location MBZUAI campus,
Abu Dhabi
Level Executive
Date February 6–10, 2026
Duration One week
(five consecutive days)
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Weekend edition
Join the UAE’s most ambitious and elite leaders in shaping the nation’s AI-driven future. This weekend edition is taught over a longer period to fit around weekday commitments. Like the week-long edition, it offers essential AI knowledge through hands-on learning and site visits to pioneering organizations.

Program details
Tuition fees AED 55,000
Location MBZUAI campus,
Abu Dhabi
Level Executive
Date Fall 2026
Duration 10 weeks
(six lessons, scheduled every second Saturday)
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Why choose this program?

Learn from pioneers
Get direct access to the world’s top AI minds, shaping the future.
Get unparalleled access
Gain hands-on experience through visits to cutting-edge sites and real-world case studies.
Join a global network
Connect with executives across sectors and regions, and benefit from lifelong MBZUAI alumni benefits.
Move beyond theory
Build actionable strategies to deploy ethical, responsible AI governance models in your organization.
Experience the UAE advantage
Enjoy exclusive access to the UAE’s premier AI ecosystem and MBZUAI’s innovation hub.

Program curriculum

Our Global AI Leadership Program offers a clear, impactful agenda. We focus on four core topics – telling the story of how we arrived at this moment in the AI era before looking ahead and giving participants the opportunity to develop the skills and understanding to move forward with confidence.

Get essential context on AI’s revolutionary trajectory and future outlook, covering today’s breakthroughs and tomorrow’s possibilities.

Develop technical literacy in core domains including machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics.

Examine real-world applications across sectors to identify high-value implementation opportunities for your industry.

Design responsible governance frameworks, navigate ethical considerations, and create sustainable strategies balancing innovation with societal impact.

Program faculty

Professor Eric Xing
President and University Professor, MBZUAI
Professor Elizabeth Churchill
Department Chair and Professor of Human-Computer Interaction
MBZUAI
Professor Luis Videgaray
Director, MIT AI Policy for the World Project
Saqr Binghalib
Executive Director, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy & Remote Work Applications Office, United Arab Emirates
Majed Al Fulaiti
Vice President, ADNOC
Jack Dobson
Commercial Artificial Intelligence Platform Lead, Palantir

FAQs

Typically, the ideal candidate has:
‘More than 10 years’ experience in executive or leadership roles.
‘A vision to drive AI transformations within their line of work.
‘A desire to support a global network of executives, all committed to the responsible use of AI.
Strong English proficiency is required to participate as the program is delivered in English.
Our admissions committee reviews each application for professional experience, leadership skills, and group contribution. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with early submissions prioritized. Limited spaces available.

Submission of an application does not guarantee a place in the program. Candidates will be evaluated and shortlisted, with confirmation only granted upon payment reconciliation.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. We recommended applying at least six weeks before the program starts to maximize your chances of a place.

Other programs at The Academy

Executive briefing

For senior leaders eager to progress in their AI journey but short on time, The Academy delivers exclusive, high-impact briefings. Each session features carefully selected CEOs, policymakers, investment bankers, and subject-matter experts, chosen specifically for their ability to provide cutting-edge insights aligned with attendee leaders’ vision.

International module

Our international module provides immersive access to leading AI ecosystems. Through partnerships with top institutions like UC Berkeley, expert-led sessions, and exclusive visits to pioneering companies in hubs such as Silicon Valley and Singapore, participants get firsthand insights into global innovation and different approaches to AI implementation.

Professional training

Through our professional training programs, we introduce AI-native expertise and ways of working to local organizations. We customize training programs to address unique needs and leverage MBZUAI’s expertise to deliver industry-specific courses that drive innovation and measurable outcomes.

“AI for All” online courses
We’ve harnessed AI tools to create high-quality online training courses – the first from MBZUAI. Participants can break down traditional barriers to expertise and take a significant step toward fostering AI-literate societies where cutting-edge knowledge can flow freely for the benefit of all.