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Dubai Digital, in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC), has launched the first-ever Virtual Cities Challenge, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at leveraging artificial intelligence-powered virtual worlds to foster innovation in support of the UN’s development goals, particularly digital inclusion.

This initiative aligns with the shared vision of Dubai Digital, ITU, and UNICC to accelerate digital transformation and establish an integrated digital ecosystem that benefits humanity. The challenge also brings together major global organizations, including the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ILO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Bank Group, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Open and Agile Smart Cities, the City of Tampere, and the Autonomous University of Barcelona.

Harnessing AI for Sustainable Development

Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of ITU, highlighted the significance of the challenge, stating:
"The innovators participating in this global competition will create technological solutions that improve lives locally and globally. The Virtual Cities Challenge will enhance communication with the next generation of technology leaders, making AI and virtual worlds more beneficial for sustainable development."

His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of Dubai Digital and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Global Initiative for AI-Powered Virtual Worlds, emphasized the role of AI-driven virtual environments, saying:
"Virtual worlds powered by artificial intelligence are a fundamental pillar of our future, and strengthening global partnerships is essential to ensuring these innovations serve humanity. The Virtual Cities Challenge embodies this vision, reinforcing Dubai’s commitment—through Dubai Digital and its global partners—to shaping the future. By leveraging collective intelligence and fostering positive competition, we aim to develop innovative solutions that align with the Charter of the Future and the Sustainable Development Goals."

Fostering Innovation Through Virtual Worlds

The challenge aims to inspire young innovators and startups worldwide to develop AI-driven virtual solutions addressing critical global challenges through cutting-edge digital technologies. By harnessing virtual worlds, the initiative seeks to advance sustainable development, bridge digital divides, and create new digital opportunities for communities. This effort aligns with the Charter for the Future and the Global Digital Compact, ensuring emerging digital technologies contribute to equitable and sustainable global progress.

The Virtual Cities Challenge was officially launched during a high-level session at the World Government Summit on February 13, 2025, where global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and academics convened to discuss the future of digital transformation.

Expanding AI’s Role Beyond Entertainment

The initiative, part of the Global Initiative for Virtual Worlds and Artificial Intelligence - Exploring Virtual Cities, serves as a global platform to advance AI-powered virtual worlds, ensuring they are safe, interoperable, and innovative for individuals, businesses, and public services. It represents a strong commitment to expanding the role of virtual worlds beyond entertainment, positioning them as drivers of governance, education, public services, and industrial transformation.

During the first Executive Committee meeting on February 10, 2025, members approved the initiative’s vision and mission, reaffirming their dedication to safe, inclusive, and sustainable AI-powered virtual environments. The strategy, under the theme "AI-Powered Virtual Worlds: Pioneering a Safe, Inclusive, and Sustainable Digital Future," outlines a roadmap for integrating AI, digital twin technology, the Internet of Things, and immersive experiences into real-world applications.

His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori called on governments, businesses, educational institutions, and technology leaders to collaborate in shaping future digital environments aligned with the Global Digital Compact.

Samir Chauhan, Director of UNICC, emphasized the potential of AI-powered virtual worlds, stating:
"Humanity has enormous potential to use artificial intelligence and virtual worlds to tackle some of the world’s most complex challenges. However, we need greater effort, creativity, and innovation to advance this global initiative."

He further noted:
"The Virtual Cities Challenge presents an exciting opportunity to develop AI-powered virtual solutions. We look forward to broad participation from innovators across various sectors."

Upcoming Milestones and Global Recognition

As part of the initiative, the second edition of "Virtual Worlds Day at the United Nations" will be held on June 11-12, 2025, in Turin, Italy. During this event, the Virtual Cities Challenge awards will be presented, showcasing practical applications of virtual worlds in governance, education, healthcare, and sustainable development.

By promoting international collaboration and cutting-edge technology, this initiative sets a new benchmark for ethical, inclusive, and sustainable digital transformation.

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