The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been increasingly improving upon its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, positioning itself as a crucial player in AI talent and innovation globally. In a recent interview, Omar Al Olama, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, shared insights into the country’s ambitious AI objectives.
“Well, if we’re going to talk about the UAE’s ambitions in any field or any sector, the main driver always is we want to be number one,” Al Olama stated confidently. The UAE’s unwavering determination to lead the way in AI is evident in its strategic partnerships and investments.
Addressing concerns about sensitive chip technology potentially moving from the Middle East to China, Al Olama reassured: “Unfounded concerns. You know, any country that has adversaries would think that we the UAE, has proven to be a strategic partner with the US.” He stressed the UAE’s strong alliance with the United States and its role as a trusted partner in the region.
On the semiconductor front, Al Olama revealed the UAE’s aspirations to produce advanced chips.
“There is no reason whatsoever for us not to become a preferred partner to produce semiconductors, especially with what we’ve gone through over the last 50 years as a country in terms of development,” he said.
The UAE’s collaboration with OpenAI, a leading AI research company, is another testament to its AI ambitions. Al Olama shared: “Sam Altman in the World Government Summit in February. I had a conversation with him and he said, I would love to have a sandbox where I’d be able to test new things in a government environment where we can actually create controlled environments.”
With a diverse population, cutting-edge infrastructure, and an entrepreneurial government, Al Olama believes the UAE offers a unique environment for AI innovation and testing.
“I think the UAE offers nothing uniquely is the go to place to do that and do that with a diverse population,” Al Olama added.
The UAE’s determined pursuit of AI leadership is clear, and its partnerships with global tech giants and openness to innovation position it as a potential powerhouse in the AI landscape.
Featured image: Credit: World Atlas
