Dubai has taken a significant step in blending heritage with innovation by introducing Latifa, the UAE’s first AI-powered virtual Emirati girl. The name Latifa was selected following a nationwide vote, where nearly 14,000 people participated. Out of three shortlisted names—Latifa, Mira, and Dubai—Latifa secured the highest share with 43 per cent of the votes.
This milestone project by Digital Dubai reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to make technology more accessible and relatable to all sections of society.
A Family That Reflects Emirati Values
Latifa does not stand alone. She is part of a digital family designed to represent core Emirati traditions while presenting a modern face of technology. Her father, Mohammed, mother Salama, and brother Rashid join her in this initiative.
Each character is dressed in traditional attire with subtle contemporary touches, making them approachable for children, families, and wider audiences. Beyond design, their purpose is to serve as digital storytellers—introducing community members to Dubai’s smart services in a friendly and engaging way.
Connecting with the Community
The creation of Latifa and her family is part of the “Year of the Community,” announced by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The initiative emphasizes projects that strengthen connections between people and technology while ensuring inclusivity across different languages and age groups.
For residents, this means a new way of engaging with Dubai’s digital transformation. Instead of technical explanations, the virtual family will present smart services through relatable storytelling. Whether it is a young child curious about digital tools or an adult exploring government portals, Latifa and her family are designed to make the experience less intimidating and more engaging.
Digital Ambassadors for Dubai
The family will act as digital ambassadors, with plans to appear across various platforms. Through their presence on social media and other communication channels, they will share messages about safe digital behaviour, highlight Dubai’s smart initiatives, and encourage more responsible use of online services.
Each character will take on a role that reflects their identity, creating a more personalised connection with audiences. By doing so, Digital Dubai ensures that innovation is not just about advanced systems, but also about meaningful human interaction.
This initiative signals the beginning of a larger movement in how Dubai communicates its digital progress. Latifa and her family are expected to be part of campaigns that simplify complex services, making them accessible to everyone from school children to professionals.
The project also reinforces Dubai’s vision of being a global leader in digital living while staying rooted in its cultural heritage. For many residents, this could be the start of a new way to engage with technology—one that feels personal, trustworthy, and community-focused.
With Latifa at the centre, Dubai has introduced a family that symbolises the city’s blend of tradition and modernity. They represent not just a technological development, but a cultural step forward—showing how innovation can be deeply human in its approach.
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