In response to an inquiry regarding AI development plans for 2026, The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development said that the state sees it as a practical tool that should become part of everyday life - from obtaining official certificates to managing regions.
AI as the foundation of a "digital state"
The primary goal for 2026 is to establish a fully functional digital state. Simply put, the aim is to ensure that digital services are not just a formality but a truly convenient way for citizens to interact with the government. To achieve this, there are plans to develop digital infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, integrate artificial intelligence into all key government systems, and bridge the digital divide between regions.
Special attention is being paid to migrating state information systems to the unified QazTech platform. This is expected to simplify the work of government agencies and make digital services more stable and faster.
From "smart cities" to "smart regions"
Previously, digitalization was often limited to specific cities and pilot projects. In 2026, the approach is changing as the state shifts to a "Smart Regions" model. To facilitate this, a unified national standard for regional development has been introduced. It includes dozens of indicators to evaluate exactly how digital technologies and AI are being implemented locally. This approach allows for regional comparisons and helps identify where digitalization is truly effective and where it exists only on paper.
Public services with AI elements
One of the key directions is the integration of AI into public services. In 2026, AI call centers, intelligent citizen assistants, automated inquiry processing systems, and analytical tools for government authorities are being actively developed.
The plan is for citizens to eventually receive full-service turnkey without needing to navigate between different websites and agencies. In the future, this role will be filled by the AI assistant AlemGPT, which will become an integral part of the eGov ecosystem.
Education and training
Authorities are banking on mass education. Artificial intelligence is viewed not as a narrow specialty but as a basic skill that should be understood by both professionals and regular users.
In 2026, programs for training citizens in digital and AI skills will continue to expand. This includes preparing IT specialists, training civil servants on using AI in their workflows, and educational projects for schoolchildren and teenagers. Training covers all levels - from school education to the preparation of executives responsible for AI implementation in government bodies.
Legislation and security
The development of AI is accompanied by legislative updates. In 2026, the primary emphasis is on personal data protection and cybersecurity.
International context
In 2026, Kazakhstan is set to host several international events in the field of AI and digitalization. This is intended to strengthen the country's position as a regional technological hub and attract foreign experts, investors, and startups.
A key international event will be the hosting of the first regional edition of the world's largest technology event network: GITEX AI Central Asia & Caucasus Kazakhstan. The forum will gather leading tech companies, startups, investors, and experts from around the globe. This platform is expected to become a venue for exchanging experience, demonstrating cutting-edge AI solutions, and building international cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence.
Throughout 2026, the international forum Digital Kazakhstan 2026 is also planned, focusing on digitalization, AI development, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. It will feature representatives from government agencies, business, the scientific community, and international partners.
Another major platform will be Digital Bridge 2026 - an annual international forum focused on the development of the digital economy, the startup ecosystem, and the venture capital market. Special attention will be paid to the implementation of AI in public administration and business, as well as attracting investment for technological projects.