AWS and e& launch AI-cloud training programme to build UAE future-ready workforce

Amazon Web Services and technology group e& announced plans to equip the UAE workforce to thrive in a digital economy driven by AI.

The “AI Nation – Afaaq”announced last week in Dubai at Gitex Global 2025, aims to train 30,000 people on artificial intelligence and machine-learning technologies via e& Academy. This is the company’s flagship platform for training.

This initiative is part of a strategic alliance between AWS & e& announced in 2024. It represents a significant milestone on the UAE’s digital leadership and talent development journey.

IDC’s research for 2024 shows that while 78% UAE organisations prioritize AI investment, almost half cite a lack of AI skills as an important barrier to large scale implementation. AWS and e& aim to address this skills gap and empower the next generation technology professionals. This will also support national objectives, such as the UAE Centennial 2071 Plan, which aims to create a diversified knowledge-based economy.

This programme will provide 30,000 sponsored AWS certification vouchers – Learners will also receive free access to AWS Skill Builder – a comprehensive online training platform that allows for self-paced learning, as well as live “cloud coach sessions” designed to prepare candidates to take certification exams. Through a combination of mentorship and hands-on training, the programme aims at developing a highly-skilled talent pool that can drive innovation across sectors and enable AI-enabled jobs throughout the UAE’s economy.

As AWS’s strategic partners, e& has the privilege of enabling this nationwide digital skills program through our e& Academy. We are combining AWS global training excellence and our local expertise with established presence to ensure that learners across the nation have access to the tools, support and resources needed to succeed in an era of cloud computing and AI. Harrison Lung, chief strategy officer of e&, said that the goal is to build a talent pool at scale for employers so they can hire with confidence. People can also step into AI-enabled positions in every sector.

Madhavi Reddy is the managing director of AWS for the Middle East and North Africa. She added: “This initiative represents AWS’s deep commitment to make world-class digital skill training accessible in the UAE. We are building the talent base needed for the nation’s journey towards digital transformation by providing 30,000 learners with industry recognized certifications in cloud computing and AI. Our collaboration with e& Academy, enabling us combine AWS’s training expertise with strong delivery locally, is crucial. It empowers a new generation to turn knowledge into a tangible impact for businesses, communities, and governments alike.”

With this ambitious training effort AWS and e& claim they are investing in the people to secure UAE’s position of a global leader in technology. The programme aims to create a large pool of talent with advanced skills in AI, cloud computing and other areas. This will foster innovation, attract more investment and ensure that the country’s digital first strategy is sustained.