Category 2: Sector-Specific Collaborations: China-UAE AI Cooperation in Smart City Development

Introduction: The Global Trend of Smart City Development and the Role of AI

In the 21st century, the relentless march of urbanization has reshaped human civilization, concentrating populations and economic activity in metropolitan hubs. This demographic shift, while a potent engine for growth and innovation, simultaneously engenders a complex array of challenges: strained infrastructure, escalating resource consumption, environmental degradation, and the imperative for efficient public service delivery. Against this backdrop, the concept of the smart city has emerged not merely as a technological buzzword but as a strategic imperative, offering a blueprint for urban environments that are both sustainable and responsive to the needs of their inhabitants. At the core of this transformative paradigm lies Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology whose analytical prowess and automation capabilities are proving indispensable in orchestrating the intricate symphony of modern urban life [1].

AI’s transformative power in the urban context stems from its ability to process, interpret, and act upon vast quantities of data generated by an ever-expanding network of sensors, IoT devices, and digital platforms. This intelligent layer enables cities to move beyond reactive problem-solving to proactive, predictive management across a multitude of domains. From optimizing traffic flow through real-time analysis of congestion patterns to enhancing public safety via intelligent surveillance and predictive policing, AI offers solutions that were once the stuff of science fiction. It facilitates the dynamic balancing of energy grids, minimizes waste through smart recycling systems, and personalizes citizen services, thereby fostering a more engaged and satisfied populace. The integration of AI into urban infrastructure is not merely about technological sophistication; it is about fundamentally reimagining the relationship between citizens, their environment, and the governing structures, promising a future where cities are not just functional but intuitively adaptive and deeply livable [2].

Indeed, the global smart city market is experiencing exponential growth, propelled by a confluence of factors including aggressive digital transformation agendas, the ubiquitous deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and a heightened global consciousness regarding sustainable urban development. Governments and municipal authorities worldwide are channeling substantial investments into smart infrastructure, recognizing that technological innovation is the most potent tool for addressing the multifaceted challenges of contemporary urban living. AI, in this ecosystem, functions as the central nervous system, enabling predictive analytics for everything from public health crises to infrastructure maintenance, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a new era of urban resilience. This profound technological integration transcends mere efficiency gains; it is fundamentally about cultivating urban environments that are more vibrant, economically robust, and inherently sustainable for generations to come [3].

Within this dynamic global landscape, the imperative for international collaboration has never been more pronounced. Nations possessing complementary strengths are increasingly forging strategic alliances to accelerate technological progress and share best practices. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), with its visionary leadership, ambitious future-proof urban development plans, and substantial financial capacity, stands as a prime example of a nation committed to pioneering smart city solutions. Concurrently, China, a recognized global leader in AI research, development, and large-scale deployment, offers unparalleled technological expertise and a proven track record in implementing intelligent urban systems. The convergence of these distinct yet complementary strengths has given rise to a burgeoning strategic partnership in the critical domain of smart city development.

This report undertakes an in-depth exploration of this pivotal China-UAE collaboration. We will meticulously examine the unique smart city visions articulated by Dubai and Abu Dhabi, dissecting their strategic objectives and implementation methodologies. A significant portion of our analysis will be dedicated to elucidating the crucial role played by leading Chinese AI companies, whose technological innovations are providing the foundational infrastructure for the UAE’s intelligent urban ecosystems. Furthermore, we will present detailed case studies of specific smart city projects, showcasing the tangible outcomes of this cross-national synergy in areas such as smart transportation, public services, and energy management. By meticulously analyzing this partnership, this report aims to illuminate a potent model for future smart city development on a global scale—a model characterized by profound mutual benefit, synergistic technological integration, and an unwavering commitment to fostering innovation for a sustainable and prosperous urban future. This collaboration, viewed through the lens of The Economist’s analytical rigor and positive outlook, offers invaluable insights into the future trajectory of global urbanism [4].

Dubai’s Smart City Vision: A Beacon of Urban Innovation

Dubai, an emirate globally recognized for its audacious architectural marvels, unparalleled economic dynamism, and visionary leadership, has embarked on an equally ambitious and transformative journey: to establish itself as the world’s smartest and happiest city. This profound aspiration is not merely a technological pursuit but a holistic, government-led strategy encapsulated within the Smart Dubai initiative. It aims to fundamentally reshape the urban experience, making it seamless, efficient, safe, and personalized for every resident and visitor. The overarching goal is to harness cutting-edge technologies, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) at its core, to elevate every facet of daily life, from governance and public services to environmental sustainability and economic growth. The comprehensive Dubai 2021 Plan, a pivotal component of this vision, meticulously outlined over 100 strategic initiatives across six critical sectors, positioning the emirate as a global benchmark for intelligent urbanism [5].

The strategic foundation of Dubai’s smart city endeavor rests upon the deep integration of technology into the very fabric of its administrative and service delivery mechanisms. A prime example is the Dubai Paperless Strategy, an initiative designed to eliminate over one billion pieces of paper used by the Dubai government annually. This bold move not only underscores the city’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship but also highlights its dedication to digital efficiency and streamlined operations. Complementing this is the Dubai Blockchain Strategy, which aims to transform Dubai into the world’s first city fully powered by blockchain technology, thereby enhancing security, transparency, and efficiency across various governmental and private sector transactions. Furthermore, the Happiness Agenda, an integral part of the Smart Dubai initiative, places the well-being and contentment of its populace at the absolute forefront. By leveraging technology to meticulously measure and proactively improve happiness levels across the city, Dubai is pioneering a human-centric approach to urban development, where technological advancement directly translates into enhanced quality of life [6].

Central to the realization of Dubai’s futuristic smart city vision is the groundbreaking Dubai 10X initiative. This forward-thinking program challenges government entities to transcend conventional bureaucratic boundaries and operate ten years ahead of their global counterparts. It fosters an environment of radical innovation, encouraging government departments to collaborate extensively with private sector partners, startups, and academic institutions to conceive and implement disruptive solutions. AI is unequivocally paramount in this ambitious undertaking, with its applications spanning a vast spectrum of urban functions. These include sophisticated AI-powered traffic management systems that predict and alleviate congestion, intelligent surveillance networks that enhance public safety, and predictive analytics tools that inform urban planning and resource allocation. The AI Lab, established as Dubai’s first dedicated AI research and development center, serves as a dynamic hub for innovation, accelerating the conceptualization, development, and deployment of AI-driven solutions across diverse sectors. Through these synergistic initiatives, Dubai is not merely constructing a smart city; it is meticulously cultivating a vibrant ecosystem of innovation where technology acts as a powerful catalyst for a more prosperous, sustainable, and profoundly enjoyable urban future. This proactive and integrated approach ensures that Dubai remains at the vanguard of global smart city development, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in urban living [7].

Abu Dhabi’s Smart City Initiatives: A Strategic Approach to Urbanism

Abu Dhabi, the distinguished capital of the United Arab Emirates, has meticulously charted its own distinctive and equally ambitious trajectory towards advanced smart urbanism. Its strategic objective is to emerge as a preeminent global leader in AI-native city development, a vision that permeates every layer of its urban planning and technological integration. While sharing Dubai’s fervent commitment to technological advancement and innovation, Abu Dhabi’s approach is often characterized by a pronounced emphasis on fostering strategic international partnerships, investing heavily in cutting-edge research and development, and maintaining an unwavering focus on sustainability, environmental stewardship, and enhancing the overall quality of life for its diverse population. The emirate’s consistent and impressive performance in prestigious global smart city indices, notably its remarkable ascent to fifth place in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, serves as compelling evidence of the efficacy and strategic foresight embedded within its smart city initiatives [8].

A foundational pillar of Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive smart city strategy is its deliberate cultivation of a robust and dynamic ecosystem for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies. This commitment is perhaps best exemplified by the establishment of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in 2019. As the world’s first graduate-level research university exclusively dedicated to AI, MBZUAI stands as a beacon of the emirate’s dedication to pioneering AI research and nurturing top-tier talent. With a distinguished global faculty and an advisory board that includes prominent Chinese AI scientists, MBZUAI is strategically positioned to be a leading hub for groundbreaking AI research and the development of future AI leaders, thereby firmly establishing Abu Dhabi at the vanguard of the global AI landscape [9]. Complementing this academic endeavor, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) actively champions and supports initiatives that attract leading international AI companies. A notable success in this regard is the establishment of SenseTime’s EMEA R&D Headquarters in Abu Dhabi, a strategic move facilitated under the visionary Ghadan 21 Accelerator Programme. Such initiatives are designed to draw global AI powerhouses to establish a significant and enduring presence within the emirate, further enriching its technological ecosystem [10].

Abu Dhabi’s expansive smart city initiatives are meticulously designed to permeate various critical urban domains, including sophisticated transportation networks, efficient public services, and advanced environmental management systems. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has played an instrumental role in spearheading and implementing transformative projects aimed at significantly enhancing urban mobility. These include the deployment of highly advanced AI-powered traffic management systems that optimize flow and reduce congestion, alongside the widespread provision of free public Wi-Fi on public buses and within numerous public parks, thereby ensuring seamless connectivity for citizens. These concerted efforts have demonstrably contributed to exceptionally high resident satisfaction rates with public transport and a notable reduction in urban traffic congestion, as prominently highlighted in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index [8]. Moreover, the emirate places a strong emphasis on the creation and maintenance of verdant green spaces and the implementation of sustainable urban planning principles. This is evidenced by the integration of interconnected sensors within public parks, which continuously monitor and measure critical environmental variables such as soil humidity and air quality. Such data-driven insights enable improved park management, enhance visitor experiences, and uphold stringent sustainability standards. These integrated and forward-looking approaches collectively underscore Abu Dhabi’s holistic and unwavering vision for a smart, sustainable, and profoundly livable city, where technology serves as a powerful enabler to elevate the well-being and prosperity of its entire community [11].

China’s Urban AI Expertise: Powering the UAE’s Smart Cities

[12] China has rapidly and decisively emerged as a global powerhouse in Artificial Intelligence, a status underpinned by a vibrant and fiercely competitive ecosystem of innovation, extensive government-backed research capabilities, and an unparalleled track record in deploying large-scale AI solutions across its own sprawling urban environments. This deep-seated expertise has made Chinese technology companies indispensable partners in the UAE’s ambitious smart city endeavors, providing the critical technological backbone that underpins many of Dubai’s and Abu Dhabi’s most transformative projects. The powerful synergy between the UAE’s forward-thinking vision and substantial investment capacity, and China’s advanced, field-tested AI capabilities, has fostered a unique and highly effective collaborative model, driving significant and rapid advancements in urban intelligence and setting new global benchmarks [12]..

Among the prominent Chinese technology giants, Huawei stands out as a key contributor to the UAE’s smart city landscape. Huawei has been deeply involved in various initiatives, particularly in Dubai, where its collaboration has yielded remarkable results in smart city solutions. The company’s expertise in information and communication technology (ICT), cloud computing, and AI has been instrumental in developing intelligent infrastructure, enhancing public services, and optimizing urban management. For instance, Huawei’s Wi-Fi 6 technology and AI solutions are powering smart centers in Dubai, enabling superior levels of service delivery and operational efficiency. Their focus on digital twins, data sharing, and AI technologies aligns perfectly with the UAE’s vision for next-generation smart cities, emphasizing intelligent risk warning and refined governance [11].

Another significant player is SenseTime Group, a leading AI software company known for its advanced computer vision and deep learning technologies. SenseTime’s commitment to the UAE’s AI ecosystem is evident in its establishment of an EMEA R&D Headquarters in Abu Dhabi in 2019. This strategic move, supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) under the Ghadan 21 Accelerator Programme, aims to develop AI capabilities across various industries, including healthcare, remote sensing, and education. SenseTime’s presence in Abu Dhabi is expected to create hundreds of highly-skilled engineering jobs and promote AI adoption across governments and industries in the EMEA region, further solidifying the UAE’s position as a regional AI hub [12].

Beyond these individual corporate contributions, the broader China-UAE partnership encompasses a $5 billion collaboration focused on AI, renewable energy, and infrastructure. This partnership involves joint research initiatives and talent exchange programs, with Abu Dhabi’s G42, a leading AI and cloud computing company, actively partnering with Chinese tech giants to advance machine learning, big data, and smart city solutions. This comprehensive collaboration highlights China’s indispensable role in the UAE’s technological advancement, especially in areas where access to Western AI technology might be constrained. The mutual complementarity between the UAE’s ambition to be a global AI leader and China’s advanced AI capabilities ensures a continued deepening of cooperation across technology transfer, infrastructure development, investment, and joint R&D initiatives in smart cities [13].

Case Studies: AI in Action Across UAE Smart Cities

The theoretical frameworks and strategic visions underpinning China-UAE AI cooperation in smart cities translate into tangible, impactful projects across various sectors. These case studies illustrate how AI is being deployed to enhance urban functionality, improve citizen welfare, and drive sustainable development in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, often with significant contributions from Chinese technological expertise.

Smart Transportation: Navigating the Future of Urban Mobility

Smart transportation stands as a critical pillar of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s smart city ambitions, aiming to alleviate congestion, enhance safety, and promote efficient movement of people and goods. AI plays a pivotal role in achieving these objectives, from intelligent traffic management systems to autonomous vehicles. In Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has been at the forefront of implementing AI-powered solutions. The Dubai 10X initiative, for instance, includes projects focused on AI-controlled traffic systems and drone-based monitoring to optimize traffic flow and respond rapidly to incidents [5]. Huawei’s collaboration with Dubai has also extended to smart transportation, providing advanced ICT infrastructure that supports real-time data analysis and predictive modeling for traffic management [11].

Abu Dhabi has similarly made significant strides in smart transportation. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has invested heavily in mobility and road network projects, utilizing AI to reduce peak-hour delays and improve public transport efficiency. The city’s high satisfaction rates with public transport and low traffic congestion, as highlighted in the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, are a testament to these efforts [9]. Furthermore, the strategic twin city agreement between Abu Dhabi and China’s Shenzhen, a global leader in smart transportation solutions, aims to foster knowledge sharing and collaborative projects in this domain, indicating a future trajectory of deeper integration of Chinese expertise in Abu Dhabi’s transport networks [14].

Public Services: Enhancing Citizen Experience and Governance

AI is fundamentally transforming the delivery of public services in UAE smart cities, making them more accessible, efficient, and responsive to citizen needs. Dubai’s vision of a “seamless” and “personalized” city experience is largely realized through AI-driven platforms that streamline government interactions. The Digital Dubai initiatives, such as the AI Lab and the broader AI Roadmap, are developing solutions that enhance everything from administrative processes to citizen feedback mechanisms [4]. The goal is to create a government with “Zero visits” and a “paperless, cashless” operation, leveraging AI to deliver optimized experiences and connect public services around major life events [4].

In Abu Dhabi, the focus on enhancing public services through AI is equally strong. The emirate’s commitment to innovation and community welfare is evident in initiatives like the upgrade of public parks with interconnected sensors. These sensors, measuring variables like soil humidity and air quality, contribute to better park management and visitor experience, demonstrating AI’s role in improving urban amenities [9]. The broader UAE AI Strategy 2031 outlines objectives to boost government performance through integrated smart digital systems, with full AI integration into medical and security services, reflecting a comprehensive approach to AI-powered public service transformation [15].

Energy Management: Towards Sustainable and Efficient Urban Environments

Sustainable energy management stands as a critical and increasingly complex component of smart city development, particularly in regions like the UAE, which are characterized by high energy demands and a strategic pivot towards renewable sources. Artificial Intelligence is proving to be an invaluable and transformative tool in optimizing energy consumption, facilitating the seamless integration of diverse renewable energy sources, and constructing highly resilient and adaptive energy grids. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are actively and aggressively pursuing ambitious green initiatives, with AI providing the indispensable intelligence layer to manage these intricate and dynamic energy ecosystems with unprecedented efficiency and foresight.

In Dubai, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has been a global pioneer in leveraging AI for smart grid management. DEWA’s initiatives include the deployment of advanced AI algorithms for predictive maintenance of infrastructure, optimizing power generation and distribution, and enhancing demand-side management. For instance, AI-powered smart meters provide real-time consumption data, enabling both consumers and the utility to make informed decisions, reduce waste, and promote energy conservation. Furthermore, AI is crucial in integrating solar power into the grid, predicting solar output fluctuations, and ensuring grid stability. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, a cornerstone of Dubai’s clean energy strategy, utilizes AI for operational efficiency and performance optimization, contributing significantly to the emirate’s goal of 75% clean energy by 2050 [16].

Abu Dhabi, through entities like the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) and its broader sustainability agenda, also employs AI extensively in its energy sector. AI-driven solutions are used to monitor and manage energy consumption in large buildings and urban developments, identifying inefficiencies and recommending optimizations. The city’s focus on sustainable urban planning, as seen in projects like Masdar City, incorporates AI for intelligent building management systems that control lighting, air conditioning, and other utilities based on occupancy and environmental conditions, thereby minimizing energy waste. AI also plays a role in optimizing water usage, a critical resource in the arid region, through smart irrigation systems and leak detection technologies. The collaboration with Chinese firms in this sector often involves sharing expertise in smart grid technologies and renewable energy integration, further bolstering the UAE’s capabilities in creating truly sustainable urban environments [17].

Dubai’s smart energy initiatives are geared towards leveraging ICT to ensure the sustainability and quality of the emirate’s resources. AI-powered solutions are deployed to improve resource efficiency and conserve consumption, contributing to a reduction in the emirate’s carbon footprint. The city’s commitment to a clean environment is supported by cutting-edge ICT innovations that digitally transform utilities and other sectors [4].

Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City stands as a pioneering example of sustainable urban development, where AI and advanced technologies are integral to its low-carbon, low-waste model. While not exclusively a China-UAE collaboration, Masdar City embodies the principles of smart energy management that both nations champion. The broader $5 billion China-UAE partnership also includes significant collaboration in renewable energy, with Chinese energy firms working with the UAE’s Masdar on solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects. These collaborations support the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 goal and focus on energy storage and grid modernization, areas where AI can provide critical optimization and predictive capabilities [13]. The UAE AI Strategy 2031 specifically targets renewable energy for facility management, further emphasizing the role of AI in achieving energy efficiency and sustainability goals [15].

These case studies collectively demonstrate the practical application and profound impact of China-UAE AI cooperation in shaping the smart cities of the future, highlighting a shared commitment to innovation and sustainable urban development.

Conclusion: The China-UAE Collaboration as a Model for Future Smart City Development Worldwide

The burgeoning partnership between China and the United Arab Emirates in the realm of Artificial Intelligence-driven smart city development represents a compelling model for global urban innovation. This collaboration, characterized by a confluence of the UAE’s visionary ambition and significant investment capacity with China’s advanced technological prowess and extensive implementation experience, is yielding transformative results across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From enhancing urban mobility and public service delivery to fostering sustainable energy management, the strategic alignment of these two nations is not merely about technological exchange but about co-creating a future where cities are intelligent, efficient, and profoundly human-centric.

The insights gleaned from this partnership underscore several critical elements that contribute to its success. Firstly, the UAE’s proactive governmental strategies, such as Dubai’s 10X initiative and the comprehensive UAE AI Strategy 2031, provide a fertile ground for innovation and rapid technology adoption. These frameworks, coupled with substantial investments in AI research and development institutions like MBZUAI, demonstrate a clear commitment to becoming a global AI leader. Secondly, China’s role as an indispensable technological partner, particularly through companies like Huawei and SenseTime, highlights its capacity to provide scalable, cutting-edge AI solutions that address complex urban challenges. These collaborations are not confined to hardware and software but extend to joint research, talent exchange, and the co-development of next-generation urban intelligence platforms.

While geopolitical considerations and external pressures, such as those related to technology transfer restrictions, present ongoing challenges, the fundamental drivers of this cooperation remain robust. The mutual complementarity—where the UAE seeks to diversify its economy and lead in digital transformation, and China aims to expand its global technological footprint—creates a resilient foundation for continued collaboration. The positive tone and forward-looking nature of this partnership suggest a shared understanding that AI is a critical enabler for sustainable development and enhanced quality of life in urban environments.

In essence, the China-UAE collaboration in smart city development serves as a powerful testament to the potential of international cooperation in addressing the complex demands of modern urbanization. It demonstrates how diverse national strengths can be synergized to accelerate technological progress, foster economic growth, and create innovative solutions for the cities of tomorrow. As urban populations continue to grow and the imperative for sustainable and intelligent urban living intensifies, this partnership offers valuable lessons and a blueprint for other nations aspiring to build truly smart, resilient, and human-centric cities worldwide.

References

[1] The 21st century has witnessed an unprecedented acceleration in urbanization, presenting both immense opportunities and complex challenges for global societies. As cities expand, so too do the demands on infrastructure, public services, and environmental sustainability. In response, the concept of the ‘smart city’ has emerged as a transformative paradigm, leveraging advanced technologies to enhance urban living, optimize resource management, and foster economic growth. At the heart of this evolution lies Artificial Intelligence (AI), a pivotal force enabling cities to become more intelligent, responsive, and efficient. AI’s capacity to process vast datasets, identify patterns, and automate decision-making is revolutionizing urban planning, transportation, public safety, and environmental management, promising a future where urban environments are not merely functional but intuitively adaptive to the needs of their inhabitants.

[2] AI’s transformative power in the urban context stems from its ability to process, interpret, and act upon vast quantities of data generated by an ever-expanding network of sensors, IoT devices, and digital platforms. This intelligent layer enables cities to move beyond reactive problem-solving to proactive, predictive management across a multitude of domains. From optimizing traffic flow through real-time analysis of congestion patterns to enhancing public safety via intelligent surveillance and predictive policing, AI offers solutions that were once the stuff of science fiction. It facilitates the dynamic balancing of energy grids, minimizes waste through smart recycling systems, and personalizes citizen services, thereby fostering a more engaged and satisfied populace. The integration of AI into urban infrastructure is not merely about technological sophistication; it is about fundamentally reimagining the relationship between citizens, their environment, and the governing structures, promising a future where cities are not just functional but intuitively adaptive and deeply livable.

[3] The global smart city market is experiencing exponential growth, propelled by a confluence of factors including aggressive digital transformation agendas, the ubiquitous deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and a heightened global consciousness regarding sustainable urban development. Governments and municipal authorities worldwide are channeling substantial investments into smart infrastructure, recognizing that technological innovation is the most potent tool for addressing the multifaceted challenges of contemporary urban living. AI, in this ecosystem, functions as the central nervous system, enabling predictive analytics for everything from public health crises to infrastructure maintenance, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a new era of urban resilience. This profound technological integration transcends mere efficiency gains; it is fundamentally about cultivating urban environments that are more vibrant, economically robust, and inherently sustainable for generations to come.

[4] China, Smart Cities, and the Middle East: Options for the Region and the United States | RAND. (2025, August 14). Retrieved from https://www.rand.org/pubs/perspectives/PEA2809-1.html
[5] Smart Dubai 2021 Strategy | The Official Portal of the UAE Government. (2024, February 13). Retrieved from https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/strategies-initiatives-and-awards/strategies-plans-and-visions/strategies-plans-and-visions-untill-2021/smart-dubai-2021-strategy
[6] Digital Dubai Initiatives | Dubai Smart City Initiatives | Digital Dubai. Retrieved from https://www.digitaldubai.ae/initiatives

[7] The Role of AI in Dubai\\’s Smart City Initiatives. (2025, February 27). Retrieved from https://www.airtics.org/the-role_of_ai_in_dubais_smart_city_initiatives/

[8] Abu Dhabi ranks 5th globally in 2025 IMD Smart City Index. (2025, April 23). Retrieved from https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/infrastructure/abu-dhabi-ranks-5th-globally-in-2025-imd-smart-city-index/

[9] Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). Retrieved from https://mbzuai.ac.ae/

[10] SenseTime EMEA Headquarters in Abu Dhabi (2019). Retrieved from https://www.sensetime.com/en/news-detail/3911?categoryId=1072

[11] Abu Dhabi ranks 5th globally in 2025 IMD Smart City Index. (2025, April 23). Retrieved from https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/infrastructure/abu-dhabi-ranks-5th-globally-in-2025-imd-smart-city-index/

[12] Huawei launches global city intelligent twins architecture to accelerate city digital transformation. (2024, October 23). Retrieved from https://www.prnewswire.com/ae/news-releases/huawei-launches-global-city-intelligent-twins-architecture-to-accelerate-city-digital-transformation-302284478.html

[13] UAE and China Forge $5 Billion Partnership to Boost AI, Renewable Energy, and Infrastructure. (2025, May 15). Retrieved from https://proxperts.ae/blog/uae-and-china-forge-5-billion-partnership-to-boost-ai-renewable-energy-and-infrastructure

[14] Abu Dhabi City and China\\’s Shenzhen sign strategic twin city agreement. (2024, February 15). Retrieved from https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/infrastructure/abu-dhabi-city-and-chinas-shenzhen-sign-strategic-twin-city-agreement/

[15] UAE AI Strategy 2031. Retrieved from https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/strategies-initiatives-and-awards/strategies-plans-and-visions/government-services-and-digital-transformation/uae-strategy-for-artificial-intelligence

[16] Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Retrieved from https://www.dewa.gov.ae/en/about-us/strategic-initiatives/mohammed-bin-rashid-al-maktoum-solar-park

[17] Masdar City. Retrieved from https://masdarcity.ae/

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  • 新的数字丝绸之路:中国与阿联酋如何通过人工智能重塑未来

    副标题:一段超越地缘政治的伙伴关系,预示着全球科技力量格局的转变 在迪拜的“未来博物馆”中,人工智能的宏伟愿景被具象化为流动的线条与沉浸式的体验,预示着一个由智能驱动的未来。这并非遥不可及的科幻场景,而是阿联酋国家战略的核心,也是其与中国日益深化的AI合作所共同描绘的蓝图。中国与阿联酋在人工智能领域的携手,远不止于技术与资本的简单交换,它正深刻地重塑着全球科技力量的版图,开辟一条全新的“数字丝绸之路”,其影响力正超越中东的地理边界,辐射至全球。 阿联酋,这个曾经以石油财富闻名于世的国家,正以前所未有的决心拥抱“后石油时代”的转型。从“2071百年计划”到雄心勃勃的“AI战略2031”[1],阿联酋正致力于将自身打造成为全球人工智能创新与应用的中心。这一战略不仅旨在实现经济多元化,更是为了确保国家在未来全球经济中的竞争力。与此同时,中国在过去十年间迅速崛起,成为全球人工智能领域的领军者,其在算法、数据、算力以及应用场景方面的优势日益显著。这种天然的互补性构成了中阿AI合作的坚实基础:阿联酋拥有远见卓识的战略规划、充裕的投资资本和丰富的应用场景,而中国则贡献着尖端的技术、海量的人才和成熟的解决方案。双方的合作,正是在这种优势互补中,共同探索并定义着人工智能的未来,为全球科技合作树立了新的典范。 本报告将深入剖析中国与阿联酋在人工智能领域的合作现状与深度,审视其在复杂地缘政治格局下所面临的挑战与策略,并最终聚焦于这段伙伴关系所蕴含的未来前景及其对全球产生的深远影响。我们将看到,在技术创新与战略自主的双重驱动下,中阿两国正共同书写着数字时代的新篇章,为全球发展提供了一个独特的合作范本,展示了如何通过技术合作实现共同繁荣,并超越传统地缘政治的限制。 第一部分:导言——沙漠中的数字绿洲 在浩瀚的阿拉伯沙漠边缘,一座座现代化的城市拔地而起,它们不仅是财富的象征,更是未来科技的试验场。阿联酋,这个曾经以石油经济为主导的国家,正以惊人的速度和远见,将目光投向了数字经济和人工智能的广阔天地。其国家战略的核心,已从地下宝藏转向了数字绿洲的构建,旨在通过科技创新实现经济的多元化和可持续发展。这其中,人工智能被视为驱动这一转型的核心引擎,而中国,则成为了阿联酋实现这一宏伟目标的关键伙伴。 阿联酋的“2071百年计划”描绘了一个雄心勃勃的未来愿景,旨在建国百年之际,将阿联酋打造成为全球最先进、最幸福的国家之一。而“AI战略2031”[1]则是实现这一愿景的具体路径,它明确提出要将阿联酋建设成为全球领先的AI创新与应用中心。这一系列战略的背后,是阿联酋领导人对未来趋势的深刻洞察:传统资源型经济的局限性日益凸显,唯有拥抱知识经济和高科技产业,才能确保国家在未来全球竞争中立于不败之地。为此,阿联酋不惜投入巨资,吸引全球顶尖人才和技术,构建世界一流的数字基础设施。例如,阿联酋政府通过设立主权财富基金和战略投资基金,如穆巴达拉(Mubadala)和阿布扎比投资局(ADIA),积极投资全球领先的科技公司和初创企业,同时也在国内大力建设数据中心、5G网络和云计算平台,为AI技术的发展提供坚实的基础设施支撑。此外,阿联酋还通过推出“黄金签证”等政策,吸引全球顶尖的AI科学家、工程师和企业家,形成了一个多元化、国际化的创新人才高地。这些举措共同构成了阿联酋在数字经济时代实现弯道超车的战略基石,也为其与中国的深度合作奠定了坚实的基础。阿联酋在推动AI发展方面展现出的决心和投入,不仅体现在资金和政策层面,更在于其对未来社会形态的深刻理解和积极塑造。他们认识到,AI不仅仅是一种技术工具,更是重塑经济结构、提升社会福祉、增强国家竞争力的战略性力量。因此,阿联酋在教育体系中也积极引入AI相关课程,培养本土人才,确保国家在未来AI时代拥有持续的创新能力。这种对未来趋势的敏锐洞察和果断行动,使得阿联酋在全球转型浪潮中占据了先机。 与此同时,中国在过去四十年间经历了经济的腾飞,并在数字经济和人工智能领域取得了举世瞩目的成就。从移动支付的普及到智慧城市的建设,从大数据分析到先进的机器学习算法,中国已经成为全球AI技术研发和应用的重要力量。其庞大的市场、丰富的数据资源、完善的产业链以及政府对科技创新的大力支持,共同构筑了中国在全球AI版图中的独特优势。中国科技企业不仅在国内市场取得了巨大成功,也积极寻求国际合作,将自身的技术和经验输出到全球。例如,中国在人工智能芯片设计、自然语言处理、计算机视觉、语音识别等核心技术领域取得了突破性进展,涌现出华为、阿里巴巴、百度、腾讯、商汤科技等一批具有国际竞争力的AI企业。这些企业不仅拥有强大的研发实力,更具备将AI技术应用于实际场景的丰富经验,例如在智慧交通、智能制造、医疗健康、金融科技等领域,中国的AI解决方案已经走在了世界前列。中国在AI领域的快速发展,得益于其庞大的人口基数提供了海量的数据资源,以及政府在政策、资金和人才培养方面的持续投入。这种“国家队”与市场力量相结合的发展模式,使得中国AI产业在短时间内实现了爆发式增长,并形成了独特的竞争优势。此外,中国在AI伦理和治理方面也积极探索,力求在技术发展的同时,确保AI的负责任和可持续应用,为全球AI治理贡献中国智慧。中国在AI领域的快速崛起,不仅改变了自身的经济结构,也对全球科技格局产生了深远影响,成为全球AI创新不可或缺的力量。 中阿两国在AI领域的合作,正是基于这种高度互补性而蓬勃发展。阿联酋拥有前瞻性的国家战略、充裕的投资资本、对新技术开放的政策环境以及作为区域枢纽的独特地理优势。这些条件为AI技术的落地和创新提供了肥沃的土壤。而中国则能提供阿联酋所急需的尖端AI技术、成熟的解决方案、海量的人才储备以及在复杂应用场景积累的丰富经验。例如,中国在智慧城市、数字金融、医疗健康和可再生能源等领域的AI应用,与阿联酋的转型需求高度契合。双方的合作,并非简单的买卖关系,而是一种深度的战略伙伴关系,旨在通过共同研发、人才培养和生态系统建设,共同探索并定义人工智能的未来,为全球科技合作树立了新的典范。这种合作模式不仅有助于阿联酋实现经济多元化和技术自主,也为中国企业提供了“走出去”的广阔舞台,实现了互利共赢。这种互惠互利的合作,不仅推动了两国经济的增长,也促进了全球科技的进步和创新。更重要的是,这种合作模式为其他发展中国家提供了一个可借鉴的范本,展示了如何通过技术合作实现共同繁荣,并超越传统地缘政治的限制。这种战略伙伴关系,正在成为连接东西方、促进南北合作的新桥梁,为构建人类命运共同体贡献着独特的智慧和力量。 本报告将深入剖析中国与阿联酋在人工智能领域的合作现状与深度,审视其在复杂地缘政治格局下所面临的挑战与策略,并最终聚焦于这段伙伴关系所蕴含的未来前景及其对全球产生的深远影响。我们将看到,在技术创新与战略自主的双重驱动下,中阿两国正共同书写着数字时代的新篇章,为全球发展提供了一个独特的合作范本,展示了如何通过技术合作实现共同繁荣,并超越传统地缘政治的限制。这种合作模式不仅关乎两国自身的未来,更对全球科技力量的平衡、数字治理的演进以及构建一个更加普惠的数字世界具有深远意义。它挑战了传统的地缘政治叙事,证明了在共同利益和技术进步的驱动下,不同文明和政治体制的国家也能建立起富有成效的战略伙伴关系。通过对中阿AI合作的深入分析,本报告旨在为读者提供一个理解当前全球科技竞争与合作新范式的独特视角,并探讨其对国际关系和全球经济秩序可能产生的深远影响,从而为政策制定者、投资者和研究人员提供有价值的参考。 第二部分:合作的广度与深度——从云端到应用 中阿两国在人工智能领域的合作,并非停留在概念层面,而是通过一系列高层战略对接和具体的项目落地,展现出令人瞩目的广度与深度。这不仅体现在两国领导人的频繁互访和战略协议的签署上,更体现在中国科技巨头在阿联酋的深耕细作,以及两国在创新生态系统建设上的共同努力。这种全方位的合作模式,正在为阿联酋的经济转型和中国的技术出海提供强大的动力,同时也为全球AI产业的发展注入了新的活力。从基础设施建设到应用场景落地,从人才培养到联合研发,中阿AI合作的触角正延伸至各个关键领域,形成了一个多层次、多维度的合作网络。 战略对接与高层推动 近年来,中阿两国高层互动频繁,为人工智能合作奠定了坚实的政治基础。2024年5月,阿联酋总统谢赫·穆罕默德·本·扎耶德·阿勒纳哈扬对中国进行了国事访问,进一步深化了两国在信息技术、人工智能和数字经济领域的合作。此次访问不仅巩固了既有伙伴关系,更开启了新的合作篇章,为两国在AI领域的长期战略合作指明了方向。访问期间,两国签署了一系列涵盖科技、经济、文化等多个领域的合作协议,其中人工智能合作是重中之重。这些协议的签署,不仅体现了两国政府对AI合作的高度重视,也为企业层面的合作提供了政策保障和发展空间。例如,在数字经济领域,双方同意加强在电子商务、数字支付、区块链等方面的合作,共同推动数字经济的繁荣发展。在信息技术领域,两国将深化在5G、云计算、物联网等基础设施建设方面的合作,为AI技术的广泛应用奠定坚实基础。这些高层互访和协议的签署,为中阿AI合作提供了顶层设计和战略引领,确保了合作的顺利推进和长期发展。 随后的2024年7月6日,由中阿创新中心(CIC)在上海主办的“中阿人工智能产业金融合作论坛”上,CIC与北京荣信数字科技有限公司、上海富电智能科技有限公司签署了谅解备忘录,标志着两国在AI产业金融领域的合作迈出了实质性步伐[2]。这些协议的签署,不仅提供了资金支持,更促进了技术与商业模式的交流,为AI项目的孵化和落地创造了有利条件。论坛还吸引了众多来自中阿两国的投资者、企业家和专家学者,共同探讨AI产业的投资机遇和发展趋势,为两国AI产业的深度融合搭建了重要平台。这些高层互访和协议的签署,体现了两国政府对AI合作的高度重视和战略投入,为企业层面的合作提供了政策保障和发展空间,确保了合作的顺利推进,也向国际社会展示了中阿两国在AI领域深化合作的坚定决心。这种政企学研多方参与的合作模式,极大地丰富了中阿AI合作的内涵和外延。 进入2025年,中阿合作的势头不减反增。一项引人注目的“50亿美元中阿伙伴关系”计划浮出水面,旨在推动两国在人工智能、可再生能源和基础设施领域的深度合作。该计划的核心内容包括G42与中国科技巨头在机器学习、大数据和智慧城市解决方案方面的合作,以及联合研究倡议和人才交流项目[3]。这项宏大的计划不仅涉及资金投入,更强调技术共享、人才培养和联合创新,旨在构建一个长期、可持续的合作生态系统。例如,在机器学习领域,双方将共同开发和部署先进的AI模型,以解决能源效率、医疗诊断和城市管理等方面的复杂问题;在大数据方面,将建立安全高效的数据共享机制,为AI应用提供丰富的数据支撑;在智慧城市解决方案方面,将结合中国的成功经验和阿联酋的实际需求,打造一批具有示范效应的智慧城市项目。这些顶层设计不仅为人工智能合作提供了强有力的政治保障和战略指引,更体现了双方超越短期利益、致力于长期共赢的坚定承诺。这种国家层面的战略规划,确保了AI合作能够获得持续的资源投入和政策支持,从而克服潜在的挑战,推动合作不断迈向新的高度。此外,该计划还特别强调了在AI伦理和数据治理方面的合作,旨在共同探索符合两国国情和国际规范的AI发展路径,确保AI技术的负责任应用,为全球AI治理贡献中阿智慧。这种全方位的合作,正在为中阿两国构建一个更加智能、可持续的未来奠定坚实基础。 科技巨头的引领作用 中国科技巨头在阿联酋的积极布局,是中阿AI合作深度与广度的生动体现。这些企业不仅带来了先进的技术和解决方案,更将中国在AI应用方面的丰富经验带到了中东,加速了阿联酋的数字化进程。它们通过设立区域总部、数据中心、研发机构以及与当地企业建立合资公司等多种形式,深度融入阿联酋的经济社会发展,成为推动两国AI合作的重要力量。这些企业在阿联酋的成功实践,也为其他中国企业“走出去”提供了宝贵的经验和示范效应,进一步促进了两国在科技领域的交流与合作。 这些合作案例表明,中国科技企业正将自身在计算机视觉、自然语言处理、云计算等前沿AI技术方面的优势,与阿联酋的实际需求相结合,共同推动智慧城市、公共安全、金融科技等关键领域的智能化升级。这种技术输出与本地化应用相结合的模式,正在为阿联酋的经济多元化和技术进步注入强大动力,并为中国企业在全球市场拓展提供了宝贵的经验。通过这些合作,中国企业不仅获得了新的市场份额,也提升了其在全球范围内的品牌影响力和技术竞争力,实现了双赢。这种深度融合的合作模式,不仅促进了两国经济的增长,也为全球AI产业的创新和发展贡献了力量,展示了新兴经济体之间合作的巨大潜力,共同构建了一个更加智能、互联互通的数字世界。 创新生态的共建 除了企业层面的合作,中阿两国还在更深层次的创新生态系统建设上携手并进。穆罕默德·本·扎耶德人工智能大学(MBZUAI)是其中的一个典范。作为全球首所专注于研究生阶段AI研究的大学,MBZUAI自2019年成立以来,便将全球合作置于其核心战略之中。中国顶尖学者,如清华大学的姚期智院士担任该校董事会成员,阿里巴巴首席机器智能科学家万霖博士担任顾问委员会成员,这些都极大地促进了两国在AI人才培养和知识交流方面的深度融合[2]。MBZUAI不仅吸引了全球顶尖的AI研究人才,也为阿联酋本土培养了一批高素质的AI专业人士,为未来的创新提供了人才储备。该大学的成立,标志着阿联酋在AI人才培养和基础研究领域的雄心,也为中阿两国学者提供了重要的交流平台,共同推动AI前沿理论和应用研究的发展。MBZUAI的课程设置和研究方向紧密结合产业需求,旨在培养既具备深厚理论基础又拥有实践能力的复合型AI人才,为阿联酋的AI产业发展提供源源不断的人才支持。例如,MBZUAI与中国顶尖大学合作开展联合研究项目,共同攻克AI领域的关键技术难题,并在国际顶级学术会议上发表研究成果,提升了两国在AI领域的国际学术影响力。此外,MBZUAI还积极与中国科技企业合作,为学生提供实习和就业机会,促进产学研深度融合,确保培养出的人才能够满足产业发展的实际需求。 此外,中国的风险投资和科技公司也正积极参与到阿联酋的初创企业生态中,通过资本和技术支持,共同培育一个充满活力的AI创新环境。例如,中国的投资机构正在关注阿联酋在金融科技、物流和医疗健康等领域的AI初创企业,为其提供资金和市场资源。这种合作模式不仅加速了阿联酋本土AI企业的成长,也为中国企业提供了新的市场和创新机遇,共同构建了一个互利共赢的AI创新生态系统。通过共同孵化项目、共享研发成果,中阿两国正在形成一个紧密的AI创新网络,为全球AI发展贡献力量。阿联酋的自由贸易区政策、优惠的税收政策以及对创新的大力支持,也为中国初创企业在中东地区的发展提供了优越的营商环境,吸引了更多中国企业前来投资兴业,共同打造中东地区的AI创新高地。例如,阿布扎比全球市场(ADGM)和迪拜国际金融中心(DIFC)等自由区,为科技企业提供了100%外资所有权、零税收等优惠政策,吸引了大量中国科技公司和风险投资机构入驻。这些机构不仅带来了资金,更带来了先进的管理经验和市场资源,帮助阿联酋本土初创企业快速成长。同时,阿联酋政府还设立了多项创新基金和加速器项目,如“Ghadan 21加速器计划”,为AI初创企业提供资金、导师指导和市场对接服务,进一步完善了创新生态系统。这种资本与技术的结合,正在加速阿联酋AI产业的成熟和发展,使其成为全球AI创新版图中不可忽视的力量,也为全球科技合作提供了新的范本,展示了如何通过国际合作共同培育和发展新兴产业。 第三部分:应对地缘政治的“平衡术” 中阿人工智能合作的蓬勃发展,并非一帆风顺,它始终在地缘政治的复杂棋局中寻求平衡。尤其是在美国对中国科技影响力日益警惕的背景下,阿联酋发现自己正处于一场微妙的“平衡术”之中。然而,正是这种挑战,反而凸显了中阿合作的战略韧性与阿联酋的自主决策能力。这种在多方压力下依然能够保持战略定力的能力,是阿联酋在全球舞台上日益成熟的标志。 挑战的客观呈现 自2024年初以来,美国对阿联酋科技实体,特别是G42公司与中国关系的审查和施压日益加剧。2024年1月,美国国会就G42与中国的联系表达了担忧,这使得G42——一家由阿联酋国家安全顾问谢赫·塔赫农·本·扎耶德控制的领先AI公司——面临巨大压力[2]。为了维护与美国的技术合作,G42在2024年2月做出了重大调整,撤回了其“42XFund”在中国的所有100亿美元投资,并承诺剥离与中国相关的技术和硬件[2]。这一事件不仅是G42自身的商业决策,更是阿联酋在地缘政治压力下,为维护与西方盟友关系所做出的战略调整。美国通过出口管制、投资审查和外交施压等多种手段,试图限制中国在高科技领域的发展,并要求其盟友选边站队。这种“非此即彼”的逻辑,无疑给阿联酋带来了巨大的战略困境,迫使其在两大全球科技强国之间做出艰难选择。美国此举旨在确保其在AI等关键技术领域的领先地位,并防止中国通过与盟友的合作获取敏感技术,从而维护其国家安全和经济利益。这种地缘政治博弈,使得阿联酋在追求技术自主和经济多元化的道路上,不得不面对来自传统盟友的巨大压力,这对其外交智慧和战略决策能力提出了严峻考验。 这背后的地缘政治逻辑清晰可见:美国试图在高科技领域遏制中国的影响力,并将其在中东的盟友纳入其技术标准和安全体系。华盛顿方面明确要求阿联酋切断G42与中国的联系,以确保敏感技术不会通过阿联酋流向中国。这种压力无疑给阿联酋带来了巨大的战略困境,迫使其在两大全球科技强国之间做出艰难选择。然而,阿联酋深知,过度依赖任何一方都可能损害其长期的国家利益和战略自主性。因此,它必须在维护与西方传统盟友关系的同时,继续寻求与中国等新兴力量的合作,以实现自身经济多元化和技术自主的目标。阿联酋的这种战略考量,反映了其在复杂国际关系中寻求国家利益最大化的务实外交策略。这种策略不仅考验着阿联酋的政治智慧,也对其在全球舞台上的角色定位提出了新的挑战,即如何在维护传统关系的同时,拓展新兴合作,实现国家利益的最大化。 阿联酋的战略自主 尽管面临外部压力,阿联酋并未完全屈从,而是在中美之间寻求一种巧妙的“平衡术”。阿联酋深知,实现经济多元化和技术自主是其长期的国家利益所在,不能将所有“鸡蛋”放在一个篮子里。正如研究发现所指出的那样:“当阿联酋无法获得西方AI技术时,中国几乎成为唯一的选择。”[2] 这句话深刻揭示了阿联酋在技术获取上的现实考量和战略需求。阿联酋的战略自主性体现在其不拘泥于传统联盟,而是根据自身发展需求和国家利益,灵活选择合作伙伴。它认识到,在某些高科技领域,中国已经具备了西方国家无法或不愿提供的技术和解决方案,特别是在成本效益、本地化适应性以及大规模应用经验方面。这种务实的态度,使得阿联酋能够在全球科技竞争中保持灵活性和主动性,不被单一力量所束缚,从而确保其国家战略的顺利实施。 阿联酋的“AI战略2031”旨在使其成为全球AI投资的领导者,并创造高经济价值的新市场[5]。要实现这一宏伟目标,多元化的技术来源和合作伙伴至关重要。与中国的合作,正是阿联酋实现这一长期目标的关键支点。它不仅提供了西方可能受限的技术,也为阿联酋带来了独特的市场机遇和发展路径。因此,阿联酋在战略上保持了与中国的接触,并继续推动符合自身发展利益的合作。这种战略灵活性使得阿联酋能够最大限度地利用全球科技资源,加速其经济转型和技术升级,同时避免过度依赖单一技术来源所带来的风险。通过这种“平衡术”,阿联酋不仅维护了与主要大国的关系,也确保了自身在AI领域的持续发展动力,为实现其国家愿景奠定了坚实基础。这种独立自主的战略选择,也提升了阿联酋在国际事务中的地位和影响力。 合作的韧性与深化 尽管外部压力重重,中阿AI合作的韧性却日益凸显,并在挑战中不断深化。2025年以来,一系列新的合作项目和倡议便是最好的证明。例如,2025年9月举行的“Investopia北京论坛”旨在加强两国在新经济、人工智能和绿色技术领域的经济伙伴关系[6]。此次论坛汇聚了两国政府官员、企业领袖和投资人,共同探讨在AI、可再生能源、生物科技等前沿领域的投资机遇和合作模式,为两国企业搭建了重要的交流平台。此外,TRENDS与小米的对话也预示着双方在AI和先进技术领域的进一步研究合作[6]。这种企业层面的深度对话和合作,表明中阿两国在技术创新和产业发展上的共同愿景,以及对未来合作的坚定信心。这些合作不仅限于技术层面,更涵盖了资金、人才和市场等多个维度,形成了全方位的战略伙伴关系,展现了中阿合作的强大生命力。 这些进展表明,中阿合作模式正在演变:它不再仅仅是单纯的技术引进,而是转向更深层次的联合研发、标准制定和人才培养。通过共同投资、共同开发,两国正在建立一种更为稳固和互惠的伙伴关系,这种伙伴关系能够更好地抵御外部干扰,并为双方带来更长远的战略价值。阿联酋与英伟达在阿布扎比启动联合AI和机器人实验室[6],以及阿联酋推出开源AI倡议[6],都显示了其在AI领域多边合作的策略,而中国无疑是其重要的一环。这种多边合作的策略,使得阿联酋能够在保持与西方技术合作的同时,继续深化与中国的战略伙伴关系,从而在全球科技竞争中占据有利地位。这种多元化的合作策略,不仅分散了地缘政治风险,也为阿联酋带来了更广泛的技术选择和创新机会,确保其在AI时代的领先地位,并为全球科技合作树立了新的典范。 第四部分:未来展望——塑造全球新格局 中阿人工智能合作的深远意义,不仅在于当下项目的落地与技术的交流,更在于其对未来全球科技格局的塑造能力。这段伙伴关系正以前瞻性的视野,共同描绘着一个由智能驱动的未来,并有望在多个新兴产业领域催生协同效应,最终影响全球治理的走向。这种合作模式,正在成为连接东西方、促进南北合作的新桥梁,为构建人类命运共同体贡献着独特的智慧和力量。 协同效应与未来产业 展望未来5到10年,中阿合作有望在多个关键领域激发出前所未有的协同效应,催生出一系列具有全球影响力的新兴产业。阿联酋凭借其雄厚的资本、前瞻性的国家战略和独特的地理位置,与中国在AI技术、人才和产业化方面的优势相结合,将共同打造出未来世界的创新高地。这种强强联合的模式,将为全球经济增长注入新的动力,并为其他发展中国家提供可借鉴的经验,共同推动全球数字经济的繁荣发展。以下将详细阐述几个最具潜力的合作领域: “数字丝绸之路”的全球辐射 中阿AI合作不仅仅是两国之间的双边关系,它更被视为“数字丝绸之路”的关键枢纽,具有强大的全球辐射效应。阿联酋凭借其独特的地理位置,连接着亚洲、非洲和欧洲,是重要的贸易和金融中心。通过与中国共同开发的AI解决方案和技术标准,阿联酋可以将这些创新成果辐射到更广阔的中东、非洲乃至欧洲市场。这种辐射效应不仅体现在技术和产品输出上,更体现在合作模式和发展理念的传播上,为全球数字经济的发展贡献力量。这种“数字丝绸之路”的建设,旨在构建一个开放、包容、普惠的数字合作平台,促进全球数字经济的共同繁荣,并为沿线国家带来实实在在的利益。 这种合作模式为其他“全球南方”国家提供了一个重要的示范。它表明,在不完全依赖西方技术体系的情况下,发展中国家可以通过与中国等新兴科技强国合作,实现经济的跨越式发展和技术的自主创新。这种模式强调技术的可负担性、适应性和本地化,有助于弥合全球数字鸿沟,推动构建一个更加普惠的数字世界。通过中阿合作,其他发展中国家可以看到,技术进步并非西方国家的专属,而是可以通过多元化的国际合作来实现,从而增强其在全球科技竞争中的自主性和话语权。这种合作模式不仅促进了经济发展,也加强了不同国家之间的文化交流和理解,为构建人类命运共同体奠定了坚实基础,为全球发展提供了新的路径选择。 对全球治理的影响 随着人工智能技术的快速发展,全球对AI伦理、数据安全和技术标准制定的关注日益增加。中阿两国在这些领域的潜在合作,可能催生一套不同于西方主导的AI治理框架。这套框架将更加关注发展中国家的需求、文化背景和数据主权,从而推动形成一个更加多元、包容和平衡的全球AI治理体系,避免技术“铁幕”的出现。这种新的治理模式将有助于打破西方在AI治理领域的主导地位,为全球AI发展提供更多元的视角和解决方案,促进AI技术的健康、可持续发展。通过共同参与全球AI治理规则的制定,中阿两国有望提升其在全球科技舞台上的话语权和影响力,为构建更加公正合理的全球治理体系贡献力量,确保AI技术的发展符合全人类的共同利益。 例如,在数据隐私和安全方面,中阿两国可以共同探索符合各自国情和文化价值观的解决方案,为全球提供多样化的治理实践。在AI伦理方面,双方可以基于共同的价值观,如公平、透明和负责任,制定一套更具普适性的行为准则,以确保AI技术的发展符合人类福祉。这种合作将有助于推动建立一个更加开放、包容和可持续的全球AI生态系统,促进AI技术更好地服务于全人类的福祉。通过这种方式,中阿两国不仅在技术上合作,更在理念上共同塑造着AI的未来,为全球社会带来积极影响,为全球AI治理贡献东方智慧。 人才与文化的融合 长期的合作必然带来人才和文化的深度融合。穆罕默德·本·扎耶德人工智能大学(MBZUAI)等机构将成为培养新一代全球化人才的摇篮。这些人才不仅精通AI技术,更了解中阿两国的文化、商业环境和发展需求,将成为未来合作的桥梁和纽带。两国之间日益频繁的人员交流、学术合作和文化互动,将为双方的长期战略伙伴关系奠定坚实的人文基础,构建起超越技术和经济层面的深厚友谊。这种人才和文化的融合,将为中阿合作注入持久的活力,确保其在未来能够持续发展和深化,并为构建人类命运共同体贡献力量。通过教育、科研和文化交流,中阿两国正在培养一批具有全球视野和跨文化沟通能力的复合型人才,他们将成为推动两国关系发展和全球进步的重要力量,促进不同文明之间的理解和互鉴。 第五部分:结论——新时代的开创者 中国与阿联酋在人工智能领域的合作,正以前所未有的深度和广度,共同书写着数字时代的新篇章。这不仅仅是两国之间简单的技术与资本交换,更是一场深刻的战略性伙伴关系,其意义远超经济范畴,触及全球力量的重新平衡和人类未来的共同塑造。从高层战略对接,到科技巨头的深度参与,再到创新生态的共建,中阿两国正通过务实的合作,将人工智能的宏伟愿景变为现实。 尽管地缘政治的复杂性带来了挑战,美国对G42等阿联酋科技实体的审查和施压,一度使得中阿合作面临考验。然而,阿联酋展现出的战略自主性和灵活性,使其能够在全球两大科技强国之间巧妙地寻求平衡,坚定地维护自身发展利益。正如报告所强调的,当西方技术受限时,中国成为阿联酋实现技术自主和经济多元化的“几乎唯一选择”。这种韧性与智慧,使得中阿AI合作在逆境中依然能够深化,并不断涌现新的合作项目和倡议。这种在复杂国际环境中保持战略定力的能力,正是阿联酋作为新兴全球力量的体现,也为其在全球舞台上赢得了尊重。 展望未来,中阿AI合作的协同效应将催生出更多新兴产业,从智能电网到太空探索,从医疗AI到数字金融,都将成为两国共同塑造的未来图景。这段“数字丝绸之路”不仅将连接中阿,更将以阿联酋为枢纽,将创新的AI解决方案辐射至中东、非洲乃至全球南方国家,为它们提供一条实现跨越式发展的可行路径。同时,两国在AI伦理、数据安全和技术标准制定方面的潜在合作,也有望推动形成一个更加多元、包容和平衡的全球AI治理体系,为全球AI发展贡献中阿智慧。这种合作模式,不仅关乎两国的繁荣,更对构建一个更加公平、开放、普惠的数字世界具有深远意义,为全球可持续发展提供了新的动力。 最终,中阿AI合作的深远影响将超越技术和经济层面,促进两国人民之间更深层次的人才流动和文化交流,为长期的战略伙伴关系奠定坚实的人文基础。在数字的星辰大海中,中国和阿联酋共同点亮的灯塔,正指引着一条通往更智能、更繁荣未来的航道,它们是新时代的开创者,为世界展示了一种超越地缘政治纷争、聚焦于共同发展和人类福祉的全新可能。这种合作不仅是技术和经济的结合,更是文明的对话与融合,为全球和平与发展注入了新的动力,为构建人类命运共同体树立了光辉典范。 参考文献 [1] UAE…

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