Dubai has introduced an innovative digital educational platform aimed at helping parents understand their children’s use of artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative promotes safe and responsible engagement with technology among younger generations, targeting families with children between the ages of 8 and 15.

Introducing GenDubAI: A Family-Centric Platform

Named GenDubAI, this online resource provides interactive content that elucidates how AI functions, highlighting its advantages and potential risks. The platform encourages parents and their children to learn together, fostering discussions about the technology’s applications in both educational and creative contexts. Developed by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI) alongside the Community Development Authority (CDA) and the Dubai Future Foundation, GenDubAI represents a crucial step in making AI knowledge more approachable for families as this technology becomes a substantial part of daily life.

Multilingual Resources for Everyone

The platform is accessible in both Arabic and English, catering to Dubai’s diverse community. Parents and children will find activities designed specifically to facilitate collaborative exploration of AI. “The UAE is a leader in AI adoption, which coincides with the rise in children’s use of smart devices in and outside educational settings,” explained Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation. He emphasized that this initiative empowers parents to guide their children in harnessing AI’s possibilities while being aware of its complexities.

Building Awareness and Digital Literacy

The introduction of GenDubAI comes at a time of heightened concern about children’s exposure to AI-generated content, issues surrounding data privacy, and the reliability of information produced through AI tools. These challenges underscore the need for enhanced digital literacy among young users. Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, director-general of the CDA, stated that preparing children for a tech-savvy future must be matched with an understanding of AI’s potential dangers, putting increased responsibility on families to oversee their children’s interaction with this technology.

Family Values at the Core of Education

GenDubAI also aligns with the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and the UAE’s Year of the Family, focusing on fortifying local values and cultural identity. Saeed Al Falasi, executive director of DCAI, mentioned that the platform allows children “limitless opportunities to engage with AI under the thoughtful guidance of their parents,” while also interweaving UAE cultural elements. The platform is built around creating “family moments,” ensuring that AI education can be integrated seamlessly into everyday family interactions.

The initiative is designed to adapt continuously, incorporating new educational tools and pathways that evolve in line with rapid technological advancements and the shifting needs of families. This forward-thinking approach will ensure that GenDubAI remains relevant in a fast-changing digital landscape, enabling families to navigate the complexities of AI together. Through this initiative, Dubai aims to empower families, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in an increasingly digital world.