Latifa AlShehhi Chief AI Officer, Ministry of Investment

Investment Data Department, Ministry of Investment

Latifa AlShehhi is a pioneering leader in women's AI leadership, advancing innovation, inclusivity, and ethical governance across the MENA region. As Chief AI Officer at the UAE Ministry of Investment and Ambassador for Women in AI UAE Chapter, she demonstrates how women leaders can drive transformative technological initiatives, establish robust AI ecosystems, and create inclusive pathways for future generations of professionals.

Breaking Barriers and Demonstrating Leadership

Latifa's career trajectory from data analyst to Chief AI Officer exemplifies women's capacity to lead at the highest levels of government technology. She is one of the few women globally occupying senior AI leadership roles in government and has leveraged this position to promote inclusion, equity, and opportunity for women in technology. At 35, she became the youngest member appointed to the United Nations Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science, reflecting her exceptional professional impact and global recognition.

Building Inclusive Communities and Pathways

As Head of Analytics and AI for Women in AI UAE Chapter, Latifa has established a vibrant professional network of over 500 women in AI and data science. She has designed and implemented initiatives including mentorship programs, capacity-building workshops, career development support, and networking opportunities. These programs ensure that emerging women technologists receive the guidance, visibility, and resources necessary to advance in AI and data-driven roles.

Latifa actively sponsors and mentors women for high-impact assignments, creating pathways for leadership development while promoting women's inclusion in strategic decision-making. Her efforts have measurably strengthened participation, visibility, and professional growth for women across government and industry.

Technical Leadership and Innovation

Latifa's leadership is grounded in technical excellence. She has led the development of national AI strategies, deployed agentic AI systems and immersive VR platforms such as Investor Vision, and established governance frameworks managing 304,329+ records across 31 government departments. These initiatives have enhanced decision-making, improved operational efficiency, and fostered data-driven investment intelligence. Her work exemplifies how gender-diverse leadership drives innovation and strengthens organizational performance.

Advocacy and Global Thought Leadership

Latifa is a respected voice in international forums, addressing AI ethics, responsible innovation, and women's leadership in technology. Through her contributions to the UN Committee of Experts, the Open Data Institute, and the ISI Committee for Women in Statistics, she has influenced global standards for equitable AI adoption and inclusive governance.

Recognition and Measurable Impact

Latifa's achievements have been recognized through multiple awards, including the 2025 MENA Stevie Award for Most Innovative Leader, Strategic Leadership Award from Top 50 Global Awards Dubai, Top 30 Women in Tech MENA, and Top 100 Game Changers in UAE Tech Ecosystem. Her leadership has enabled measurable impact in workforce inclusivity, policy adoption, capacity-building, and AI-enabled government operations.

Leadership Philosophy and Legacy

Latifa advocates: "You do not need permission to lead start now, show up, and create impact." Through her leadership, mentorship, and innovation, she is creating enduring infrastructure that empowers women in AI, inspires future leaders, and establishes a model for responsible, inclusive, and high-impact technology leadership. Latifa AlShehhi is not only advancing women's leadership in AI she is redefining the landscape for generations to come.