ABU DHABI: Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, highlighted the UAE’s rapid and strategic deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), setting the nation apart as a global leader in the technological realm. Speaking at the 2nd Global Government Leaders Program, Al Olama underscored the UAE’s unique approach to AI, emphasizing its role in enhancing quality of life and its integration into strategic government functions.
According to Emirates News Agency, Omar Al Olama elaborated on the UAE’s AI journey, which began in 2017 under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The country has adopted a proactive and bold stance on AI, focusing on its crucial role in the future and achieving unmatched deployment speed. This strategic approach was shared with international government leaders during a series of field visits aimed at showcasing the UAE’s best practices in various strategic sectors.
Al Olama det
ailed the evolution of AI technologies in the UAE, from early focuses such as self-driving cars and computer vision to the advanced development of Large Language Models (LLMs). He pointed out the significant investments in supercomputing that have allowed the UAE to develop and train its LLMs and attract major global partnerships, including with tech giant Microsoft.
The session also addressed the broader implications of AI, such as the potential risks associated with rapid technological advancement. To mitigate these risks, the UAE has implemented several initiatives, including an extensive AI training program for senior government officials in collaboration with Oxford University and the UAE AI Camp, designed to demystify AI technology for the public.
Furthermore, the Global Government Leaders Program, organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development and the Government Experience Exchange Office, plays a crucial role in preparing government leaders from around the world to handle fut
ure technological challenges. The program’s participants, hailing from 31 diverse countries, benefit from the UAE’s experience in enhancing government performance and readiness.
This comprehensive approach not only positions the UAE as a frontrunner in AI deployment but also as a responsible leader in addressing the economic and social implications of this transformative technology. The country’s commitment to continuous learning, adaptation, and international cooperation sets a benchmark for global best practices in harnessing AI.