The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is making waves in the world of artificial intelligence (AI) with its ambitious plans to become a global leader in the field. With the appointment of an AI minister in 2017 and the recent hosting of top tech emissaries, the UAE is positioning itself as a key player in the AI arms race dominated by the United States and China.
At a recent Atlantic Council Front Page event, Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE minister of state for artificial intelligence, digital economy, and remote work applications, emphasized the importance of AI in shaping the future of governments and the private sector. He predicted that more countries would follow suit in appointing AI ministers to navigate the impact of this transformative technology.
One of the most significant developments in the UAE’s AI journey is its collaboration with Microsoft, where the tech giant announced a $1.5 billion investment in G42, an Abu Dhabi-based AI firm. Al Olama likened the partnership to a “marriage,” highlighting the cultural alignment between the two entities.
While some may view this collaboration as a sign of the UAE aligning with the United States over China, Al Olama stressed the importance of including all international stakeholders in the AI conversation. He compared the current AI landscape to the nuclear arms race during the Cold War, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation among nations.
Looking ahead, Al Olama emphasized the importance of addressing the second-order impacts of AI, particularly in responding to unforeseen events like the recent storm in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. He highlighted the role of technology in better forecasting and preparing for such events in the future.
As governments grapple with the challenges of regulating AI while protecting privacy and copyright laws, Al Olama underscored the need for international collaboration and public engagement. While acknowledging the complexities of AI regulation, he cautioned against hasty decisions based on ignorance, emphasizing the need for thoughtful and informed approaches to governing this transformative technology.