Is your Dubai AI business certified? Here’s why the Dubai AI Seal matters, and how to apply for free

Dubai: If you own or work for a business in Dubai that’s at the frontier of artificial intelligence (AI), get it verified by the Dubai government by applying for the Dubai AI Seal – the city's first-of-its-kind certification programme for trusted AI companies. Here’s everything you need to know about the Dubai AI Seal, what it means, why your business might need it, and how to apply. What is the Dubai AI Seal? In January 2025, the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) announced the launch of the Dubai AI Seal, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation, and Chairman of the Higher Committee for Future Technology and Digital Economy. The initiative is in line with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for AI – a strategic roadmap launched in April 2024 by Sheikh Hamdan to accelerate AI adoption, drive digital transformation, and position Dubai as a global leader in AI governance and innovation. What is the purpose of the Dubai AI Seal? The Dubai AI Seal’s objective is to establish a network of trusted companies that government entities and businesses can rely on, for secure and responsible AI solutions. The verification system aims to speed up the growth of Dubai’s AI industry, while maintaining high standards for responsibility and transparency. Here are the key benefits of the Dubai AI Seal: Verified excellence: The DCAI’s classification process ensures that only businesses that genuinely provide AI technology receive the Dubai AI Seal. This allows for increased business opportunities, and removes irrelevant suppliers from an already crowded AI business landscape. So, if you receive a Dubai AI Seal, you enjoy enhanced credibility and reputation for your business. Tiered recognition: The Dubai AI Seal isn’t just a mark of authentication – it also recognises the impact your business has on Dubai’s economy. The Seal’s six tiers – E, D, C, B, A and S – reflect the recipient’s level of economic contribution, with S representing the highest impact on Dubai’s AI economy. Companies that were among the first to be awarded the Tier S certification, were etisalat and IBM. Seamless verification: Each Dubai AI Seal comes with a unique serial number. Organisations can verify that the business is an authentic AI supplier, by scanning the seal’s QR code or checking the serial number on the Dubai AI Seal website. This detail creates transparency that empowers businesses to make informed decisions when selecting AI partners. Government access: The Dubai AI Seal is officially recognised by all Dubai government entities. As of October 2025, government entities in the emirate began restricting all AI-related service and consultancy contracts to companies certified with the Dubai AI Seal. By raising the bar for trust, transparency and accountability in AI, the initiative ensures smart solutions adopted in government operations meet the highest standards of quality, security, and technical governance. Who is eligible to apply? The Dubai AI Seal is open to all local, regional, and international technology companies licensed to operate in Dubai, and that offer AI products, services, or integrated AI solutions. How does the Dubai AI Seal work? All companies that apply must go through a rigorous certification process before being awarded a Dubai AI Seal. Here’s how it works: Submit the application: AI businesses of any size that operate legally in Dubai may submit their information through a streamlined online application process. Classification: The DCAI team assesses each application, using the Dubai AI Business Activity Classification System. Applications are evaluated based on six key areas: the nature of the companies’ activities and services, the number of employees specialising in AI, current and future projects, and partnerships within the public and private sectors. Receive the Dubai AI Seal: Approved businesses receive their personalised Dubai AI Seal, which can be exhibited on their websites and apps. The Seal includes a unique serial number and classification tier, which is broken down as follows: Tiers E and D: Indicate foundational or basic AI usage, early integration or smaller-scale service offerings within the local market. Tiers C, B, and A: Indicate intermediate economic contribution, growing commercial deployment, advanced technology providers, and expanding technical infrastructure. Tier S: Indicates the highest impact on Dubai’s AI economy, featuring substantial local economic contribution, mature project portfolios, and strong integration with the public or private sectors. How do I apply for the Dubai AI Seal? Follow these steps to apply for the Dubai AI Seal: Visit the official website – dub.ai/en/ai-seal – and navigate to ‘Apply Now’. You will be prompted to fill out an application form. Enter the reason why you want t