In a major leap toward its ambition to become a global leader in artificial intelligence, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has started using AI technology to help write, update, and improve laws, dramatically cutting the time it takes by up to 70%. The UAE government recently announced the establishment of a dedicated office to oversee this AI-powered legislative process, marking a significant innovation in governance.
According to a report by The National News, the newly created office utilizes AI systems that can analyze thousands of pages of existing legislation, identify outdated elements, and suggest improvements or modernizations. This AI-driven approach allows lawmakers and government departments to focus more on decision-making and less on time-consuming document reviews and drafting.
The UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, Omar Sultan Al Olama, emphasized the importance of this initiative. He stated that integrating AI into government processes is not just about efficiency but also about preparing the UAE for the future, where rapid technological changes will demand equally swift legislative responses.
“Instead of taking months or even years to review and update laws, AI can now perform much of the preliminary analysis within weeks,” said Al Olama during a media briefing. “This enables human lawmakers to concentrate on evaluating recommendations, ensuring legal quality, and making informed decisions.”
The AI systems work by studying historical legal documents, detecting patterns, spotting inconsistencies, and proposing updates that align with current needs and international best practices. Officials mentioned that AI does not autonomously pass laws; instead, it acts as a powerful assistant. All suggestions generated by AI are carefully reviewed and validated by legal experts before any changes are finalized.
However, experts caution that while AI can dramatically improve speed and efficiency, it is not infallible. Legal scholars and technology specialists warn that AI models can misinterpret context, especially in sensitive or complex legal matters, leading to inaccuracies if not properly supervised.
“AI has the potential to make the legislative process more dynamic and responsive,” said Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, a technology policy expert based in Abu Dhabi. “But there is always a risk of errors because AI systems lack human intuition and a deep understanding of cultural nuances that are critical in lawmaking. Therefore, human oversight remains essential.”
This cautious optimism reflects the UAE’s broader AI strategy, which aims to position the country as a hub for artificial intelligence innovation by 2031. Introduced in 2017, the UAE’s AI strategy focuses on sectors such as health, education, energy, transportation, and now governance. By integrating AI into its legislative framework, the UAE demonstrates how emerging technologies can transform even traditional areas of government operation.
International observers are watching the UAE’s moves closely. If successful, the project could serve as a model for other nations seeking to modernize their governance structures through technology. The initiative also highlights the UAE’s commitment to pioneering responsible AI usage, balancing innovation with caution.
The new legislative AI office is expected to expand its scope gradually, with plans to collaborate with local universities, international legal bodies, and technology firms to further enhance the system’s capabilities. Officials noted that the ultimate goal is not to replace human lawmakers but to equip them with advanced tools that make governance more efficient, transparent, and responsive to citizens’ needs.
As the UAE marches toward its 2031 vision, initiatives like this showcase how AI can be a force for positive change — provided it is implemented thoughtfully, with appropriate safeguards. The coming years will reveal how well these systems perform in practice and whether the benefits of AI-assisted governance can be scaled sustainably across other sectors.
Sources:
- The National News – “UAE launches AI system to help write and review laws faster”
- Gulf News – “UAE’s AI vision 2031: Transforming governance through technology”
