Experts Explore Future Of Social Robots At Global Future Councils Annual Meetings In Dubai

Experts from various sectors gathered in Dubai for the 'Workshop on Shaping Pathways for the Future of Social Robots.' Organised by the UAE Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) and the World Economic Forum (WEF), this event was part of the Annual Meetings of the Global Future Councils and Cybersecurity 2025, held from 14-16 October. The workshop aimed to explore trust-building in social robots as they become more common in daily life.

The UAE Government, in collaboration with WEF, hosted over 700 specialists from 93 countries across 37 Councils. These councils focus on global efforts to design a sustainable future, improve community quality of life, and create opportunities for future generations. The workshop discussed how social robots are increasingly present in hospitals, schools, airports, and homes.

Experts defined 'Social Robots' as machines designed to interact with humans daily. They are used in healthcare, customer service, education, and even at home for companionship or surveillance. Despite their potential, high costs and complexity have limited their adoption. However, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted their usefulness when social distancing made certain tasks unsafe for humans.

The session included insights from Karl Bezdikian and Qasim Kapasi of Dubai Future Foundation; Fatma Abulhoul, Head of C4IR; Isabella Pirolo of C4IR; and Mikhail Rudik from Dubai Future Labs. They discussed ethics, regulations, cultural acceptance, media roles, and education concerning social robots. Recommendations were made for responsible technology adoption.

Participants considered whether robots could replace humans but concluded that such a reality is distant. They predicted that human-technology boundaries would blur further over time. A future where robots and androids are fully integrated into society might eventually be possible.

The UAE Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution was launched in April 2019 through a partnership between Dubai Future Foundation and WEF. It is the first affiliate centre globally offering a platform for developing technology governance and policy protocols collaboratively. The Centre facilitates dialogue on governance challenges posed by advanced technologies from the fourth industrial revolution (4IR).

Annual Meetings: Themes and Milestones

The Annual Meetings of the Global Future Councils and Cybersecurity 2025 addressed six themes: Technology, Economy, Society, Environment, Governance, and Health. This year marked a milestone as it was the first time Cybersecurity meetings were held alongside Global Future Councils. This event is part of a 16-year strategic partnership between the UAE Government and WEF.

Nearly 900 Global Future Councils have been conducted during this partnership, engaging over 12,000 officials and experts worldwide. The discussions at these meetings aim to advance global efforts toward sustainable development while addressing emerging challenges in various sectors.

With inputs from WAM