SARA ALZAABI (DUBAI)
As part of Abu Dhabi government entities' participation at GITEX 2024, the Statistics Centre - Abu Dhabi (SCAD) is showcasing three key initiatives: Bayaan AI, the Data for Good Alliance, and the Abu Dhabi Census 2023.
SCAD's Director General, Abdulla Gharib Alqemzi in an interview with Aletihad, outlined the specifications of these intiatives.
Bayaan AI, a unified decision-making platform, is transforming the way the Abu Dhabi government approaches strategy and policy-making.
"Bayaan AI is revolutionising government decision-making by providing timely access to statistical, experimental, and geospatial data," he said.
The platform integrates diverse datasets to offer a comprehensive understanding of trends and patterns across various sectors, enabling the development of informed strategies and policies. Equipped with advanced generative AI capabilities, Bayaan AI features interactive dashboards that allow users to quickly and efficiently access critical information.
Ethical AI implementation is a key focus, Alqemzi said, with Bayaan incorporating prompt shielding to mitigate bias, transparency on whether data is AI-generated or estimated, and tools that enhance data reliability for decision-makers.
The Data for Good Alliance, SCAD's second key initiative, is a data collaboration framework aimed at leveraging private sector data to address social and economic challenges. "The platform serves as a hub for publishing opportunities where private sector data can make a significant social and economic impact for the future of Abu Dhabi," Alqemzi explained.
The third initiative, the Abu Dhabi Census 2023, has transformed from a traditional once-in-a-decade survey into a dynamic, on-demand census production model. By leveraging administrative data sources such as education, housing, and employment records, the census offers a comprehensive, index-based analysis of demographic trends.
Recent census data revealed that Abu Dhabi's population has reached 3.8 million, marking an 83% increase since 2011.
The census also highlights a significant shift towards a knowledge-based economy, with white-collar employment growing twice as fast as blue-collar jobs (109% vs. 65%), reflecting a decade-long effort to leverage the emirate's diverse talent and boost economic value.
Discussing the long-term vision for these initiatives, Alqemzi noted the continued expansion and enhancement of Bayaan AI's capabilities, particularly through generative AI. He envisions the platform evolving to deliver deeper strategic insights for government officials.
As for the Data for Good Alliance, the aim is to further develop a collaborative space where private sector contributions can support Abu Dhabi's social and economic development.
The Abu Dhabi Census will also continue to expand the quality and scope of its statistical products to better serve the community, he said.