Free AI Courses in UAE 2026: 4 Programmes to Learn Generative AI, Prompt Engineering
Looking to learn Artificial Intelligence (AI) without spending money on expensive training programmes? There are several free AI courses and learning opportunities available in the UAE in 2026, helping students, working professionals, jobseekers and government employees develop essential digital skills.
From learning how to write effective AI prompts to exploring generative AI, cybersecurity and advanced AI tools, these initiatives offer opportunities to improve your knowledge and prepare for future career opportunities.
The UAE is expanding its investment in artificial intelligence education through government-led initiatives and partnerships with international technology companies such as Google, IBM, OpenAI and Microsoft.
Free AI Courses in UAE 2026 – Overview
| Programme | Main Focus | Eligibility | Fees |
| One Million Prompters | Prompt Engineering and Generative AI | Open to everyone | Free |
| Google AI Plus | AI tools for study and research | UAE university students aged 18+ | Free for 1 year |
| IBM SkillsBuild | AI, Cybersecurity and Digital Skills | Selected learner groups | Free |
| AiNative Abu Dhabi | Practical AI and Workplace Skills | Government employees and wider public | Free |
1. Dubai One Million Prompters Initiative
The One Million Prompters initiative is a Dubai government-led programme designed to equip one million people with essential artificial intelligence and prompt engineering skills.
Launched by the Dubai Future Foundation and Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence, the programme helps learners understand how to communicate effectively with AI tools and use them for everyday tasks, productivity and creative work.
Unlike traditional classroom training, this programme offers a self-paced online learning experience.
What Will You Learn?
The One Million Prompters programme includes four learning modules:
| Module | Course Topic |
| Module 1 | Unleashing the Power of AI |
| Module 2 | Commanding Conversations with AI Chatbots |
| Module 3 | AI-Powered Productivity Revolution |
| Module 4 | Creative Frontiers with Generative AI |
Each module takes approximately one hour to complete.
Participants will learn how to:
- Understand artificial intelligence and its applications.
- Write effective prompts for AI chatbots.
- Use AI tools to improve productivity.
- Explore generative AI for creative applications.
- Apply AI skills to personal and professional tasks.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to everyone, regardless of age, location or professional background.
- Students, employees, business owners, content creators and beginners interested in AI can participate.
Course Duration and Fees
| Details | Information |
| Course Name | One Million Prompters |
| Duration | Approximately 4 hours |
| Learning Method | Online and self-paced |
| Modules | 4 |
| Course Fee | Free |
| Certificate | Available after completion |
| Eligibility | Open to everyone |
How to Register for One Million Prompters?
Interested learners can register online by following these steps:
- Visit the official One Million Prompters website.
- Open the course registration page.
- Sign up for the learning programme.
- Complete the four learning modules.
- Take the required quizzes and assessments.
- Download your certificate after successfully completing the course.
- Official Registration: https://dubai.ai/en/omp
2. Google AI Plus – Free One-Year Access for UAE University Students
University students in the UAE can benefit from one year of complimentary Google AI Plus access through an initiative by the UAE Artificial Intelligence Office in collaboration with Google.
The initiative is part of the UAE’s AI for All strategy, which aims to make artificial intelligence tools more accessible and encourage responsible AI adoption among younger generations.
The offer provides students with access to AI-powered tools that can support their education, research, assignments and content creation.
What Does Google AI Plus Include?
Eligible students can access a range of Google AI tools and features, including:
Gemini app for AI-powered assistance.
- Gemini Notebook for working with academic materials.
- Research assistance and study support.
- AI-powered summaries and interactive audio content.
- Tools for creating digital content.
- Up to 400GB of storage.
These tools can help students organise study materials, understand complex topics, prepare summaries and improve their research activities.
Eligible for Free Google AI Plus
The programme is available to registered university students in the UAE who meet the following conditions:
- Must be aged 18 or above.
- Must be a university student in the UAE.
- Must complete registration before the offer deadline.
Google AI Plus Offer Details
| Details | Information |
| Programme | Google AI Plus |
| Provider | |
| UAE Partner | UAE Artificial Intelligence Office |
| Eligibility | UAE university students |
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Subscription Period | 1 year |
| Cost | Free |
| Registration Deadline | 31-Dec-26 |
How to Apply for Free Google AI Plus?
Students can register for the offer through the official Google registration link.
- Registration Link: https://goo.gle/studentoffer26-uae
Important: Complete the registration before 31 December 2026 to benefit from the complimentary one-year subscription. Check the official registration page for verification and eligibility requirements.
3. IBM SkillsBuild – More Than 1,000 Free Technology Courses
IBM SkillsBuild is another opportunity for people in the UAE who want to improve their technology knowledge and develop practical digital skills.
In collaboration with the UAE Cyber Security Council, is expanding access to free technology education through its SkillsBuild platform.
The initiative provides access to more than 1,000 learning courses covering artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing and other technology-related subjects.
Participants can also work towards industry-recognised digital credentials.
What Can You Learn Through IBM SkillsBuild?
The platform offers courses across several technology and professional development areas.
| Course Category | Learning Topics |
| Artificial Intelligence | AI fundamentals and generative AI |
| Cybersecurity | Digital security and cyber awareness |
| Data Analytics | Data understanding and analysis |
| Cloud Computing | Cloud technology fundamentals |
| Project Management | Project planning and management |
| Workplace Skills | Professional and career development |
Who Can Join IBM SkillsBuild in the UAE?
The UAE initiative focuses on five learner groups:
- High school students.
- University students.
- Entry-level employees.
- Government employees.
- Participants in the CyberE71 Start-up and Innovation Track.
This initiative provides an opportunity for students and professionals to develop technology skills without paying for expensive training courses.
IBM SkillsBuild Programme Details
| Details | Information |
| Platform | IBM SkillsBuild |
| Partner | UAE Cyber Security Council |
| Course Availability | 1,000+ courses |
| Main Subjects | AI, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics and Cloud Computing |
| Eligibility | Five selected learner groups |
| Fees | Free |
| Credentials | Industry-recognised digital credentials available |
How to Register for IBM SkillsBuild?
Follow these steps to explore the available courses:
- Visit the official IBM SkillsBuild website.
- Create your learner account.
- Browse the available technology courses.
- Select your preferred AI or digital skills course.
- Complete the learning activities and assessments.
- Check the course requirements for available digital credentials.
- Official Website: https://skillsbuild.org
4. Abu Dhabi AiNative Programme – Free AI Training for Residents
Abu Dhabi’s Department of Government Enablement (DGE) has introduced the AiNative programme to improve artificial intelligence knowledge among government employees and the wider public.
The initiative is being developed in collaboration with OpenAI, Microsoft and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI).
One of its key objectives is to train 20,000 government employees by the end of 2026 as part of Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become the world’s first AI-native government by 2027.
The programme also aims to make practical AI learning available to UAE residents.
What Will You Learn Through AiNative?
The AiNative programme offers different learning journeys for government employees, senior leaders and the general public.
Government employees will receive practical training in AI tools, including:
- ChatGPT
- Codex
- Microsoft 365 Copilot
The public learning programme will focus on everyday applications of artificial intelligence, including:
- Managing personal finances.
- Searching and applying for jobs.
- Improving everyday productivity.
- Creating online content responsibly.
- Understanding practical AI applications.
Who Can Apply for AiNative?
The programme has different learning opportunities for the following groups:
| Category | Eligibility |
| Government Training | Abu Dhabi government employees |
| Public Learning Programme | UAE citizens and residents |
| Executive Programme | Government department leaders |
AiNative Programme Details
| Details | Information |
| Programme Name | AiNative |
| Authority | Abu Dhabi Department of Government Enablement |
| Partners | OpenAI, Microsoft and MBZUAI |
| Government Training Target | 20,000 employees |
| Main Focus | Practical AI and workplace applications |
| Public Access | Through Tomouh learning app |
| Login Method | UAE PASS |
| Fees | Free |
| Availability | Phased rollout |
How to Register for AiNative?
The public learning programme is planned to be accessible through Tomouh, the AI-powered learning application developed by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Government Enablement.
Interested residents can:
- Visit the official DGE website.
- Check the latest AiNative programme announcements.
- Access the Tomouh learning application when public enrolment opens.
- Log in using UAE PASS.
- Follow the available AI learning journey.
- Official Website: https://www.dge.gov.ae
Important: AiNative is being introduced in phases. The government pilot is underway, while public access is expected to follow. Check the official DGE website for confirmed enrolment dates.
Which Free AI Course Is Best for Beginners in the UAE?
Choosing the right programme depends on your learning goals and current experience.
| Your Goal | Recommended Programme |
| Learn AI from the basics | One Million Prompters |
| Improve prompt engineering skills | One Million Prompters |
| Use AI for university studies | Google AI Plus |
| Learn cybersecurity and technology | IBM SkillsBuild |
| Develop workplace AI skills | AiNative |
| Explore generative AI | One Million Prompters and IBM SkillsBuild |
| Use AI for everyday tasks | AiNative |
For beginners who have never used AI tools before, One Million Prompters is a good starting point because it offers a short, structured course covering AI fundamentals, chatbots, productivity and generative AI.
University students can also benefit from Google’s one-year AI Plus offer, while professionals interested in technology careers can explore IBM SkillsBuild.
Benefits of Learning Artificial Intelligence in 2026
Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly important across different industries in the UAE. Learning how to use AI tools can help individuals improve their professional knowledge and adapt to changing workplace requirements.
Some important benefits include:
- Better Career Opportunities: AI knowledge can strengthen your professional skills.
- Improved Productivity: AI tools can help with research, writing, planning and routine tasks.
- Digital Skills Development: Learn about generative AI, prompt engineering and automation.
- Cost Savings: These programmes provide free learning opportunities.
- Professional Development: Digital credentials from eligible courses can support your professional portfolio.
- Business Applications: Learn how AI can support marketing, customer service and business operations.
However, completing a free AI course does not automatically guarantee employment. Learners should combine AI knowledge with practical experience and other relevant professional skills.
Free AI Courses in UAE 2026 FAQ’s
1. Which are the best free AI courses in the UAE in 2026?
- Four programmes worth exploring are One Million Prompters, Google AI Plus for university students, IBM SkillsBuild and Abu Dhabi’s AiNative programme.
2. Can UAE residents learn AI for free?
- Yes. Several programmes offer free AI learning opportunities. One Million Prompters is open to everyone, while other programmes have specific eligibility requirements.
3. Can beginners learn prompt engineering without experience?
- Yes. The One Million Prompters initiative is designed to help beginners understand AI tools and learn how to write effective prompts.
4. Which AI course is suitable for working professionals?
- IBM SkillsBuild and AiNative are useful options for professionals interested in technology and workplace AI applications. One Million Prompters is also suitable for learning basic AI skills.
5. What is the registration deadline for Google AI Plus in the UAE?
- Eligible university students must complete registration by 31 December 2026 to access the one-year complimentary offer.
6. Do these free AI courses require payment?
- The four programmes covered in this guide are offered free of charge. However, learners should check individual programme conditions, eligibility and any optional paid services before registering.
Final Words
The UAE’s free AI learning initiatives in 2026 provide valuable opportunities for students, jobseekers, employees and residents who want to improve their digital skills.
Whether you want to learn prompt engineering through Dubai’s One Million Prompters, access Google AI tools as a university student, explore technology courses through IBM SkillsBuild or develop practical AI knowledge through Abu Dhabi’s AiNative programme, there are several ways to get started without paying course fees.
If you are planning to build your AI knowledge, explore the eligibility requirements and register through the official programme websites. Starting with a short free course can be a useful first step towards developing skills for an increasingly AI-driven workplace.