UAE Residents Call for Stronger AI Education and Ethical Awareness, DMU Dubai Survey Finds

Nearly three-quarters of UAE residents believe there is an urgent need for greater awareness and education around the ethical use of artificial intelligence, according to a new survey by De Montfort University (DMU) Dubai. The findings come as AI becomes increasingly embedded in both professional and personal life across the country, reinforcing the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in technology and innovation.

The survey showed that 72 per cent of respondents support stronger education initiatives on AI ethics. More than 60 per cent said they frequently use AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Copilot for learning, problem-solving, and work-related tasks, reflecting how quickly generative AI has entered everyday use. Despite this rapid integration, residents expressed concern about understanding and applying AI responsibly.

Professor Shushma Patel, DMU Dubai’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Artificial Intelligence, said the findings underline the importance of equipping people with both technical skills and ethical awareness. “Of all the technological breakthroughs in the past half-century, nothing matches the power and potential of AI,” she said. “Universities must ensure students master these tools responsibly while understanding the ethical implications that come with them.”

The survey also found that confidence in entering the job market varies by age. Among residents aged 18 to 24, only 44 per cent said they felt prepared to enter the workforce, compared with 59 per cent overall. Researchers believe this reflects uncertainty about how AI will reshape career paths and skill requirements in the years ahead.

DMU Dubai has responded by embedding AI into its teaching while emphasising responsible use. Its new 85,000-square-foot campus in Dubai Internet City gives students direct exposure to major tech firms including Google, Microsoft, and Meta. The university uses a “block teaching” model, where students study one subject at a time, allowing deeper engagement and reflection. More than half of survey respondents said they found this approach more effective than traditional multi-subject teaching.

Simon Bradbury, Pro Vice-Chancellor International at DMU, said the university’s goal is to prepare graduates who can think critically about AI rather than simply use it. “In a world where AI knows everything, what makes a DMU Dubai graduate valuable is depth of understanding,” he said. “Students learn to apply AI as a tool while developing creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills that no algorithm can replicate.”

The survey also revealed mixed feelings about AI’s impact. While 67 per cent said AI makes life easier, 47 per cent worried it could reduce human learning and critical thinking. Experts say this highlights a broader need for responsible engagement and strong ethical frameworks.

As the UAE’s AI market is projected to reach Dh170 billion by 2030, both education and regulation are becoming central to ensuring the technology’s benefits are realised safely and inclusively. DMU Dubai’s study suggests that while the UAE is leading in AI adoption, the next step is ensuring every user understands how to apply it with responsibility, balance, and human insight.