Meet the first virtual Emirati family in Dubai

• Dubai Digital’s Virtual Emirati Family
• Character Profiles and Personalities
• Purpose and Vision Behind the Initiative
• Digital Ambassadors for a Connected Future
• Technological Innovation with Cultural Authenticity
• FAQs

Digital Dubai has introduced the first virtual Emirati family: four virtual ambassadors who embody authentic Emirati values. The public naming campaign for the first character of the first virtual Emirati family in Dubai garnered remarkable engagement, with nearly 14,000 participants casting their votes to select the name “Latifa” for the inaugural virtual Emirati family member.

Who all are part of the first virtual Emirati family in Dubai? Let’s find out.

The birth of the first virtual Emirati family in Dubai

Digital Dubai’s innovative approach regarding Dubai virtual family using AI began with an interactive community campaign. The public participated in picking the UAE’s first Emirati virtual character from three options: Latifa, Mira and Dubai. The response was extraordinary, with approximately 14,000 people participating in the selection process.

The results revealed a clear preference, with “Latifa” securing 43% of all votes cast. “Mira” followed with 37% support, while “Dubai” received 20% of the votes. The democratic naming process for Digital Dubai virtual ambassadors established a strong foundation for community involvement from the project’s inception.

Following this successful engagement initiative, Digital Dubai completed the Emirati virtual family launch through social media channels. Latifa presented herself alongside her family members: her father, Mohammed; her mother, Salama; and her brother, Rashid.

Character Profiles and Personalities

Each member of the first virtual Emirati family has been developed with distinct characteristics and interests.

Mohammed, the father figure, is passionate about automobiles, robotics and football. He enjoys video gaming and wants to create an autonomous vehicle.

Salama, the mother character, offers a more thoughtful perspective on the role of technology in society. Her philosophy centres on the belief that artificial intelligence should enhance and simplify human existence rather than replace it. Her character emphasises the importance of maintaining human connection in an increasingly digital world.

Rashid, Latifa’s brother, represents the tech-savvy younger generation. His character is marked by keen insights into cutting-edge innovations and a genuine enthusiasm for shaping a digital future. This representation acknowledges the significant role young Emiratis play in advancing the nation’s technological landscape.

Latifa herself appears in traditional Emirati attire with contemporary elements, creating a visual representation that honours cultural heritage while embracing modernity. Her approachable design makes her particularly relatable to children and families, facilitating meaningful conversations about technology, artificial intelligence and digital services.

Purpose and Vision Behind the Initiative

The virtual family inspired by local cultural values is designed to connect with diverse community segments. Their ability to communicate in multiple languages will enhance their accessibility and reach across Dubai’s multicultural population.

The Emirati Virtual Family initiative aligns perfectly with the UAE Theme of the Year for 2025, “Year of the Community,” announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. The year-long focus aims to strengthen participation and constructive engagement with community members across various platforms and initiatives.

Digital Ambassadors for a Connected Future

The virtual family has been conceptualised as a team of “digital ambassadors” who will utilise storytelling to reflect digital life in Dubai. Through their narratives and interactions, they will promote technological awareness and integration into everyday life, making digital transformation concepts more relatable and accessible to the general public.

How does the project engage different age groups? In upcoming phases, Digital Dubai plans to develop comprehensive communication identities for each family member. These characters will feature in various storytelling and awareness content specifically tailored for different age groups and community segments. The strategic approach ensures that digital literacy reach the most appropriate audiences effectively.

How will the characters be used in digital campaigns? Latifa, Mohammed, Salama and Rashid are expected to appear across various social media platforms soon. Their content will highlight Digital Dubai’s initiatives while encouraging safe and responsible behaviour in digital spaces, addressing important topics such as cybersecurity, digital etiquette and online safety.

Technological Innovation with Cultural Authenticity

What makes this initiative particularly noteworthy is its successful integration of AI technology with Emirati cultural representation. The characters maintain traditional elements in their appearance and values while embracing technological advancement, creating a balanced representation that respects heritage while looking toward the future.

The project represents an innovative approach to government communication, moving beyond conventional methods to engage citizens through relatable, culturally authentic virtual representatives. It also acknowledges how modern audiences now consumee media, all the while maintaining cultural relevance.

FAQs

The first virtual Emirati family project is a testament to Dubai’s strong commitment to pioneering digital solutions that remain firmly rooted in local cultural values. As these digital ambassadors begin their work across social media platforms, they will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping public understanding and engagement with Dubai’s digital transformation journey.

To learn more about the latest happenings in Dubai, subscribe to MyBayut – the region’s biggest property and lifestyle blog.

Images Courtesy: Digital Dubai and the Official Dubai Media Office Website.