In brief
Dubai Chambers announced at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award the creation of an Agentic AI category that will honor Dubai-based private sector firms demonstrating effective use of autonomous AI technologies. The new category emphasises business outcomes, cybersecurity alignment and workforce readiness and is overseen by a panel of independent experts as part of Dubai's broader Agentic AI transformation program. The move is part of Dubai’s strategy to accelerate responsible AI adoption across all industries.
Dubai Chambers announced on November 1, 2026 that it is adding an Agentic AI category to the prestigious Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award, opening a new avenue for Dubai‑based private companies to be recognised for deploying autonomous artificial intelligence solutions that deliver measurable business outcomes.
The new award aims to recognize firms across all sectors that have adopted Agentic AI in a responsible and practical manner, demonstrating how these technologies can streamline operations, enhance decision-making and strengthen competitiveness. The category will evaluate companies on four key dimensions: talent readiness, implementation, cybersecurity alignment and tangible performance gains.
Category Criteria
Submissions will be assessed by an independent panel of experts who will measure how effectively a company has integrated autonomous AI into its core processes. Judges will consider evidence of top‑grade talent development, the rigor of the implementation plan, alignment with cybersecurity standards, and quantifiable improvements in productivity and profitability.
Program Context and Oversight
Dubai Chambers says the initiative is part of the city’s wider private‑sector Agentic AI transformation programme, which is overseen by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. The programme’s goal is to accelerate the practical adoption of Agentic AI, enabling businesses to enhance their administrative and operational processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen decision‑making across all industries.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, commented on the launch:
Agentic AI is a key driver of business competitiveness, innovation, and growth. We are committed to enabling the private sector to adopt these technologies responsibly and effectively to enhance productivity, transform business models, and create sustainable economic value. Business excellence awards play an important role in fostering a culture of innovation, showcasing successful experiences, and encouraging companies to adopt best practices, further strengthening Dubai's position as a global hub for business and the digital economy.
He added, “The Agentic AI category aims to recognise companies that demonstrate excellence in applying these technologies and translating their potential into tangible business results. By showcasing their achievements, we seek to inspire the wider business community and encourage more companies to develop innovative applications.”
The establishment of this category aligns with Dubai’s commitment to positioning the emirate as a leader in digital transformation. By highlighting and rewarding successful, responsible deployment of autonomous AI, Dubai Chambers hopes to signal to the private sector that the city is ready to support and celebrate high‑impact technological innovation.
Companies interested in submitting a nomination can expect to have their solutions rigorously vetted by the independent panel, ensuring that only the most promising and effective implementations receive the award. While the exact timeline for award presentations remains to be announced, the launch marks an important milestone in Dubai’s broader strategy to accelerate AI-driven productivity and competitiveness across all business sectors.
