Latifa Alshehhi

Latifa Alshehhi is a visionary Data-Tech leader, AI strategist, shaping the UAE’s future through data-driven policymaking, intelligence enablement, and Data governance. With over a decade of experience across key government entities, she has been instrumental in driving national data strategies, pioneering AI and analytics initiatives, and advancing digital transformation across sectors. In her current role as Director of Investment Data Department at the Ministry of Investment, Latifa is responsible for shaping Data & AI strategies that support the UAE's investment goals. Her efforts focus on building a robust intelligence ecosystem to gather marketing analysis, country profiles, and investment strategies. She also plays a key role in ensuring compliance with international data standards, developing partnerships, and promoting the UAE as a global investment hub through data-driven insights. Previously, as Data Management Manager at the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), she pioneered a data-driven culture, embedding governance, literacy, and ethical AI frameworks across the organization. She led the development and execution of AI ethics policies, data governance programs, and next-generation data technologies, directly supporting Dubai’s vision of becoming a world-leading smart city. Her initiatives empowered decision-makers with real-time insights, predictive analytics, and AI-driven intelligence, transforming urban mobility, infrastructure planning, and public services. She also served as Head of Smart Data at the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Center (FCSC), under the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, where she played a pivotal role in revolutionizing statistical operations through digital transformation. She was instrumental in establishing the UN Global Platform for Big Data and Data Science in the MENA region, fostering cross-sector collaborations with the private sector to advance AI and big data adoption. Her groundbreaking work on the UAE Open Data Portal (bayanat.ae) and the Emirates Data Network laid the foundation for a national open data ecosystem, enhancing transparency, accessibility, and data-driven innovation across the UAE. Latifa is an active member of international organizations, including the United Nations Committee of Experts in Big Data and Data Science, Head of Analytics and AI for Women in AI, UAE Chapter, and a member of the Open Data Institute, advocating for ethical AI adoption and responsible data governance.