Omar Al Olama Emphasises Dubai's Role As A Global Leader In AI At AI@70 Conference

Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, highlighted the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Crown Prince of Dubai has emphasised hosting the AI@70 conference in Dubai to showcase the emirate's dedication to leading in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology globally.

The AI@70 conference will be a significant part of Dubai AI Week 2026. This event aims to strengthen the UAE's position as a global hub for future technologies and innovations. It will serve as a platform to explore the latest advancements in AI and advanced technology applications.

Dubai is set to host this international event in partnership with Dartmouth College from the United States, where the concept of artificial intelligence originated in 1956. The gathering will bring together leading thinkers and experts in AI to create a roadmap for the next 70 years, focusing on using this transformative technology for humanity's benefit.

The conference is organised by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) alongside APCO International. Omar Al Olama mentioned that AI@70 provides an opportunity to tackle philosophical questions arising from the AI revolution. He stated, "As AI transforms nations and societies around the world, it is vital humanity comes together to set the philosophical direction of this technology."

Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, expressed DIFC's commitment to turning ambitious ideas into reality through AI@70. He said, "As the home of the Dubai AI Forum, DIFC is committed to turning bold ideas into reality with a lasting impact." The event aims to merge finance, technology, art, and philosophy while charting a course toward global unity.

Tobias Rees, an AI philosopher and head of the AI@70 steering committee, described this as an unparalleled event for humanity. He remarked on how AI is leading humanity into uncharted territory where traditional distinctions between humans and machines blur. Rees stated that this moment is unprecedented in human history.

A New Technological Era

Mamoon Sbeih, President of APCO’s Middle East & North Africa division, noted that AI@70 marks a crucial point in humanity's future. He said it represents one of humanity's greatest opportunities in centuries but requires collective effort to ensure it benefits everyone. Sbeih emphasised that gathering global minds at AI@70 will help define AI's future positively.

The conference will celebrate seven decades of progress in artificial intelligence while igniting new breakthroughs that uplift societies worldwide. By welcoming top thinkers from across the globe to Dubai, it aims to transform industries and expand opportunities globally.

This landmark event seeks not only to celebrate past achievements but also to inspire future advancements in artificial intelligence. By addressing critical questions about its role in society today and tomorrow, participants hope to leave behind a prosperous world for future generations.

With inputs from WAM