OBJECTIVE: The enabling and derailing factors for using artificial intelligence (AI)-based applications to improve patient care in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the physicians' perspective are investigated. Factors to accelerate the adoption of AI-based applications in the UAE are identified to aid implementation. METHODS: A qualitative, inductive research methodology was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 12 physicians practicing in the UAE. The collected data were analyzed using NVIVO software and grounded theory was used for thematic analysis. RESULTS: This study identified factors specific to the deployment of AI to transform patient care in the UAE. First, physicians must control the applications and be fully trained and engaged in the testing phase. Second, healthcare systems need to be connected, and the AI outcomes need to be easily interpretable by physicians. Third, the reimbursement for AI-based applications should be settled by insurance or the government. Fourth, patients should be aware of and accept the technology before physicians use it to avoid negative consequences for the doctor-patient relationship. CONCLUSIONS: This research was conducted with practicing physicians in the UAE to determine their understanding of enabling and derailing factors for improving patient care through AI-based applications. The importance of involving physicians as the accountable agents for AI tools is highlighted. Public awareness regarding AI in healthcare should be improved to drive public acceptance.