Relying on AI too much? Dubai has a free programme to help you find balance

Dubai: Do you sometimes feel like AI (artificial intelligence) is becoming more of a crutch than a companion? Are you relying on AI a little too much for recommendations, tips, and everyday decisions? It may be time to strike a balance in your digital life, and Dubai’s Digital Balance programme is here to help. What is the Digital Balance initiative? Launched in October 2025, the Digital Balance programme is a strategic initiative by the emirate to promote conscious technology use and enhance community wellbeing. It was produced in collaboration with Digital Dubai, the Community Development Authority (CDA), the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Through Digital Balance, the four authorities aim to encourage healthier lifestyles and reduce the impact of chronic and mental health conditions among the emirate’s residents. The programme also aims to foster a regulatory and social environment that promotes digital balance and responsibility, aligning with Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33), which is a strategic masterplan that aspires to elevate Dubai to among the top three global cities by 2033. How does the Digital Balance programme work? In 2026, the Year of the Family, the Digital Balance programme is being delivered through seminars, workshops, training courses, and via practical tools and guidance that empower the following segments of society: Seniors Parents Couples preparing for marriage Youth and children People of determination Which workshops or initiatives can I participate in? Currently, the following initiatives are being offered under the Digital Balance programme, with more added regularly: For seniors: In January this year, the CDA and Digital Dubai launched the senior citizens track under the Digital Balance initiative. With a focus on senior citizens (60 years and above) and retirees (55 years and above), the track aims to empower and equip them with the tools and skills they need for positive and safe interactions online. According to the CDA, the programme focuses on: Empowering them to fully benefit from government services. Providing complete access to digital health initiatives. Raising awareness about protection against digital risks and fraud. Teaching them positive digital habits that enhance their quality of life. The sessions are coordinated directly through the CDA, which announces upcoming workshops on its website: cda.gov.ae. For parents and children: In June this year, the CDA, in partnership with Sage Clinics, launched ‘A Child’s Right to a Balanced Digital Life’ initiative as part of the family track, under the Digital Balance programme. Here’s what you can expect under this initiative, which is being rolled out at schools across the emirate: Awareness workshops and campaigns targeting both parents and educational institutions. Training sessions and workshops for teachers. The appointment of youth ambassadors, known as ‘Child Rights Friends’, to help raise awareness and promote positive digital practices among children. According to the CDA, during its first year, the initiative is expected to reach more than 5,000 children, train over 480 teachers, engage more than 1,000 parents, and qualify over 300 youth ambassadors to support the promotion of Digital Balance. How can I get in touch to get Digital Balance support? The UAE Council for Digital Wellbeing, which is responsible for raising digital awareness among all segments of society, developing and implementing related policies, initiatives and programmes, and revising and updating related legislation, has a dedicated hotline number that you can call. The support line offers professional advice from dedicated experts, and focuses on solutions for practical daily situations faced in the digital world. Contact the UAE Digital Wellbeing Support Line: 80091