Dubai AI Seal: A Framework to Identify and Promote Genuine AI Providers

Dubai has introduced the Dubai AI Seal, a six-tier classification and verification framework for companies providing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. Launched by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), this initiative aligns with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for AI. It highlights Dubai’s efforts to establish transparent verification of reputable AI companies. Some benefits include assisting government entities and companies in purchasing decision-making and increasing business opportunities and credibility for companies that genuinely provide AI products and services whilst protecting the market from “AI Washing”.

What is the Dubai AI Seal?

The AI Seal is a certification program launched by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) at the Dubai Future Foundation, aiming to classify companies using the Dubai AI Business Activity Classification System. According to the official website, the classification aims to ensure that the seal is only granted to businesses that genuinely provide AI technology. Verified companies are classified into one of six tiers: E, D, C, B, A, and S, depending on their level of economic contribution, with ‘S’ signifying businesses with the highest impact on Dubai’s AI economy. This certification is intended to serve as a trust signal for businesses, governments, and consumers, reflecting responsible practices in AI development.

Objectives of the AI Seal

The Dubai AI Seal initiative focuses on fostering trust and innovation in AI by:

• Promoting Transparency: Encouraging AI companies to verify and classify their AI businesses while enabling procuring organisations to verify AI service providers.

• Driving Economic Growth: By facilitating business opportunities for AI companies in Dubai, the emirate can position itself as a global hub for trusted AI solutions and enable businesses to unlock the full potential of AI in diverse sectors.

These objectives align with Dubai's vision of creating an innovative environment for adopting advanced technologies. More details oin the objectives can be found on the official Dubai AI Seal page.

Dubai AI Seal Application Process

The AI Seal certification application is awarded based on compliance with specific criteria for each tier that has yet to be announced. The application process is straightforward and free of charge. Applicants must provide detailed business information, including industry focus, workforce composition, and AI-related activities. Examples of required information include the number of AI engineers employed and descriptions of AI products or services offered. Organisations interested in the Dubai AI Seal can apply online via the official portal.

Steps to Prepare for the AI Seal Certification

For organisations seeking to obtain the AI Seal, preparation is key. Below are some recommended steps:

1. Evaluate AI Activities: Assess how AI is integrated into your operations through internal processes or customer-facing products and services.
2. Strengthen Governance Frameworks: Develop or update policies related to ethical AI use, data protection, and algorithmic accountability. Establish clear oversight mechanisms to manage potential risks.
3. Document Compliance: Gather and organise required documentation, such as business licenses, proof of AI-related activities, and descriptions of AI products or services. Be prepared to provide supporting evidence for claims made in the application.
4. Engage Key Stakeholders: Involve internal teams, including legal, IT, and operations, to ensure comprehensive preparation. Consider appointing a dedicated contact person to liaise with the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence.
5. Coordinate Efforts for Higher Certification Levels: If aiming for a higher certification level, additional coordination and effort may be required, including more extensive documentation and process refinement.

Risk and Compliance Considerations

While applying for the Dubai AI Seal certification is an accessible process, companies must approach it with careful planning and adherence to compliance protocols to mitigate potential risks. Here are key considerations from a risk and compliance perspective:

1. Review Terms and Conditions: Ensure your legal team thoroughly reviews the terms and conditions before applying. These include specific obligations, licensing rights granted to the certifying authority, and commitments to maintain compliance.
2. Authorisation to Submit: Confirm that the person applying is authorised to bind the company to these terms. This prevents disputes about accountability later.
3. Seal Usage Compliance: Understand the permitted uses of the AI Seal. Misusing or misrepresenting the certification could lead to penalties or reputational damage. Internal marketing procedures may need to be updated.
4. Granting Licensing Rights: The terms grant certain licensing rights to the certifying authority, such as publicly showcasing certified or non-certified companies. Ensure your organisation is comfortable with these conditions.
5. Rejection Risks: If an application is rejected, the certifying authority may display the company as not certified on its website. This could lead to unnecessary reputational impact. Evaluate whether your organisation is ready to meet the criteria before applying.
6. Ongoing Compliance: Certification is not a one-time process. Companies must ensure they continuously adhere to the AI Seal’s requirements to maintain their certification. Whilst the certification is free of charge, it requires allocating resources to complete and maintain it.

Addressing these considerations can help companies better prepare for the AI Seal application process and minimise risks associated with non-compliance or misrepresentation.

If your organisation needs support navigating this process, contact us at Várri Consultancy. Together, we can help position your organisation as a trusted leader in the AI landscape.