DHA to train leadership in AI

In a step toward future-proofing its healthcare leadership, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has inked a deal with the prestigious ESCP Business School — yes, the very same one founded in 1819 — to roll out a sharp new training program. Announced during Dubai AI Week, this six-week sprint is all about giving DHA's top brass the AI know-how they'll need to steer Dubai's healthcare system into the future.

As His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi put it, this is about "cultivating advanced leadership capable of understanding and harnessing AI technologies" — and doing it with flair.

How will it work?

Here's the game plan:

• Duration: Six weeks of intensive, hands-on learning.
• Participants: 30 executives and department heads from DHA.
• Curriculum: Crafted with international gurus in AI, cybersecurity, and data strategy.
• Certification: Graduates will walk away with a shiny, internationally accredited diploma from ESCP Business School in Paris.

But this isn't just about stuffing heads with facts. The program promises a sweet blend of theory and real-world application, arming leaders with the "specialized knowledge, future-focused insights, and practical tools" they'll need to bring data-driven magic to their departments. As Cédric Denis-Remis of ESCP said, the program "offers participants a unique educational experience that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on application."

Why does it matter?

Let's not beat around the bush: healthcare's future is being rewritten by AI, and those who can't keep up will be left eating dust. DHA's move isn't just savvy; it's essential.

Al Ketbi nailed it when he said the training will "contribute to greater operational efficiency and innovation," making sure Dubai stays ahead of the pack. It's about boosting efficiency, sparking innovation, and keeping Dubai's health system not just ticking, but thriving. The goal? Data-driven leadership that doesn't just react to change — but leads it.

As Denis-Remis pointed out, it's all about "empowering healthcare leaders and strengthening their role in applying AI to build a more efficient and sustainable healthcare future." In other words, giving them the keys to the kingdom of tomorrow.

The context

The backdrop here is bigger than just one city or one program. AI is hurtling forward at breakneck speed, touching every sector in its path — especially healthcare. Whether it's predictive analytics, smarter diagnostics, or personalized treatment plans, AI is turning what once sounded like sci-fi into today's must-haves.

Dubai's not content with just playing catch-up — instead, the city's aiming to set the gold standard. "This collaboration represents an advanced model of synergy between global academic expertise and forward-looking government strategies," Al Ketbi said, highlighting just how seriously they're taking the mission.

By teaming up with a global heavyweight like ESCP Business School, the DHA is making a loud and clear statement: Dubai is gunning to be the global HQ for health innovation and AI applications. And if this program delivers on its promises, that future's looking mighty bright.