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Abu Dhabi Unveils Dh13-Billion Plan To Lead as the World’s First Fully AI-native Government by 2027

Abu Dhabi is setting ambitious goals for the future, announcing a Dh13-billion strategy that aims to make its government operations entirely powered by artificial intelligence (AI) by 2027. With this move, the emirate aspires to become the world’s first fully “AI-native” government, with automated processes and complete adoption of cloud computing technologies.

The Abu Dhabi Government Digital Strategy 2025-2027, led by the Department of Government Enablement – Abu Dhabi (DGE), is a transformative initiative to enhance public service delivery, optimize government functions, and drive sustainable economic growth. Along with technological advances, the strategy will create over 5,000 jobs, boosting the local economy and contributing more than Dh24 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP.

The core objective of this initiative is to embed AI, cloud technologies, and data-driven insights into the very DNA of the government. “By incorporating these cutting-edge technologies, we will optimize our operations, improve public services, and ultimately support sustainable economic growth,” said Ahmed Hisham Al Kuttab, Chairman of DGE.

Key aspects of the strategy include the establishment of a unified digital enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform, which will improve government efficiency and streamline processes. As part of the “AI for All” program, the initiative will also focus on empowering citizens by training them in AI applications, ensuring a highly skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Moreover, the government is committed to implementing over 200 AI-driven solutions across various public services, ensuring that these innovations reach all facets of governmental operations. Alongside the technological advancements, comprehensive cybersecurity measures will be introduced, with new digital guidelines aimed at maintaining the highest standards of security.

This move is not only a strategic shift towards a fully digital government but also a bold step towards positioning Abu Dhabi as a global leader in the adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies in the public sector.

Eurobank Approves €258.7M Dividend And €288M Share Buyback

Robust Dividend And Share Repurchase Initiatives

Eurobank S.A. shareholders approved a dividend distribution of €258.7 million at the annual general meeting held on April 28. The resolution was supported by approximately 77% of paid-up capital, representing more than 2.77 billion voting shares. The dividend will be paid from special reserves and remains subject to approval by the European Central Bank.

Strategic Share Buyback And Capital Optimization

In addition, shareholders approved a share buyback programme of up to €288 million over the next 12 months, pending regulatory clearance. The programme includes the cancellation of 28,097,019 own shares, which will reduce share capital by approximately €6.18 million. Following this adjustment, total share capital is set at €792,751,032.04, divided into around 3.6 billion ordinary voting shares with a nominal value of €0.22 each.

Enhanced Executive And Employee Incentives

Alongside capital measures, the meeting addressed remuneration. Shareholders approved an allocation of €35.2 million from special reserves for employee compensation. A five-year programme was also introduced to distribute shares to eligible executives and employees of Eurobank and affiliated entities. In parallel, a revised variable remuneration framework allows selected senior executives to receive up to 200% of fixed pay.

Governance And Audit Oversight Reforms

Changes were also made at the board level. Alexandra Reich was appointed as an independent non-executive director, replacing Jawaid Mirza. Following this appointment, eight of the thirteen board members are classified as independent. Amendments to the articles of association introduce flexibility in board terms and allow partial renewals.

Strengthening Audit And Sustainability Commitments

On the audit side, KPMG Certified Auditors S.A. was appointed as the statutory auditor for 2026. The fee is set at €1.8 million for statutory audits of separate and consolidated financial statements, with an additional €0.3 million allocated for assurance of the sustainability statement. The meeting also approved the 2025 remuneration report and confirmed committee fee arrangements, alongside updates on audit committee activity and independent director reporting.

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