Higher Colleges of Technology and Saal.ai Partner to Develop UAE’s Next Generation of AI Talent
In a strategic move to foster innovation and enhance the UAE’s artificial intelligence capabilities, the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) has signed a landmark partnership with Saal.ai, a leading cognitive technology company under the Abu Dhabi Capital Group (ADCG). The collaboration aims to equip Emirati students with practical experience and training in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data systems, helping prepare a new generation of AI-ready professionals.
The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony held at HCT’s campus, signaling a joint commitment to building a sustainable, knowledge-driven economy in line with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and the UAE Year of Community.
AI in Education: A National Priority
As part of the collaboration, DigiXT, Saal.ai’s advanced AI and big data platform developed in the UAE, will be integrated into HCT’s academic programs. This initiative will give students hands-on exposure to real-world applications of AI, empowering them with future-focused skills that meet industry demands and support national innovation agendas.
His Excellency Dr. Faisal Alayyan, President and CEO of HCT, said:
“This initiative marks a transformative milestone in our educational journey. By embedding AI into our curricula, we are equipping Emirati youth with the future-focused skills needed to lead in a digital economy. Our partnership with Saal.ai ensures students gain both technical competencies and the innovative mindset to become agile problem-solvers and drivers of national progress.”
The agreement aligns with HCT’s 2023–2028 strategic vision, which emphasizes applied learning, industry engagement, and the production of graduates who are work-ready and capable of thriving in a fast-evolving global workforce.
Saal.ai’s Role in Fostering Innovation
Vikraman Poduval, CEO of Saal.ai, stated:
“At Saal.ai, we believe in the transformative power of technology to drive societal progress. By equipping Emirati students with practical AI skills and collaborating with public sector entities, we are fostering innovation and contributing to the UAE’s vision of a sustainable and knowledge-based economy.”
The partnership also reinforces the UAE’s broader educational and economic strategies, including efforts to integrate AI into K–12 government school curricula beginning in the next academic year.
Long-Term Impact and Economic Potential
Globally, the AI sector is forecasted to reach a market value of USD 15.7 trillion by 2030. In the UAE, AI adoption is expected to boost GDP by 35% (USD 96 billion) and reduce government expenditure by nearly USD 3 billion through increased efficiency.
This collaboration between HCT and Saal.ai is a significant step toward realizing these ambitions by aligning higher education with national AI priorities, developing talent pipelines, and nurturing homegrown innovation. It also supports key sectors outlined in the UAE’s AI strategy, including education, space, technology, energy, and transportation.
As the UAE continues to lead digital transformation across the region, partnerships like this are essential to empowering Emiratis with the skills and mindset required to thrive in the AI-powered future.
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